1967 Lola T70 Mk III Spyder

The 1967 Lola T70 Mk III Spyder was part of a renowned series of racing cars developed by British manufacturer Lola Cars. Introduced in the mid-1960s, the T70 series became a dominant force in international sports car racing, particularly in the United States and Europe. Designed by Eric Broadley, the founder of Lola, the T70 Mk III Spyder was primarily aimed at the burgeoning Can-Am series in North America, where it faced stiff competition from McLaren, Chaparral, and others. 

The T70 Mk III Spyder was a further evolution of the original T70 model introduced in 1965. The Mk III focused on improving aerodynamics, weight distribution, and performance over its predecessors. As a mid-engine car, it featured a low-slung, sleek body design that helped reduce drag and increase top speed. It had an open-top “spyder” configuration, which was favored for the Can-Am series, as it allowed drivers to race in lightweight and high-performance cars without the additional structural weight of a roof. 

In terms of technical specifications, the T70 Mk III Spyder was powered by various large-displacement V8 engines, with the most common being the Chevrolet small-block V8, a favorite among private teams due to its power and reliability. This engine was capable of producing upwards of 450 horsepower, depending on the setup, giving the car tremendous straight-line speed. Its tubular steel spaceframe chassis was complemented by an aluminum body, providing a lightweight yet rigid structure that was essential for endurance racing. The suspension system utilized double wishbones at the front and rear, enhancing the car’s handling characteristics, while disc brakes ensured strong stopping power. 

The T70 Mk III Spyder’s racing pedigree is closely tied to its success in the Can-Am series, where it competed against other high-powered, prototype-style cars. Though it did not dominate the series like the McLaren M8 would in later years, the Lola T70 was a consistent competitor, frequently placing on podiums and challenging for wins. Its lightweight design, combined with the powerful V8 engine, made it one of the fastest cars on the grid. It also competed in endurance races, including the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring, where it further solidified its reputation as a reliable and competitive sports car. 

The T70’s impact extended beyond the track. Its design principles influenced many later racing cars, and it remains a highly regarded classic among collectors and enthusiasts. The Mk III Spyder, in particular, is prized for its combination of performance, engineering, and aesthetic appeal, making it one of the most iconic sports cars of the 1960s. Even decades after its heyday, the Lola T70 Mk III Spyder is celebrated in historic racing events, where it continues to showcase its speed and style.