1973 Lola T292
1973 Lola T292
Brand
Lola Cars
Year
1973
Country
Great Britain
Generation
T292
1973 Lola T292
Brand
Lola Cars
Year
1973
Country
Great Britain
Generation
T292
About this car
Discover the history
The Lola T292, introduced in 1973, was an evolution of the T290 and part of Lola’s series of sports-prototypes designed for two-liter Group 6 racing. It was created during an era when Group 6 racing was highly competitive, with manufacturers seeking to build light, powerful cars that could excel in endurance events. The T292 followed its predecessor closely in design but incorporated significant improvements to enhance performance and reliability.
Designed by Bob Marston with the support of young engineers like Patrick Head and John Barnard, the T292 utilized a lightweight aluminum monocoque chassis that was strong yet agile. This chassis was surrounded by a sleek, aerodynamic fiberglass body that aimed to maximize the car’s downforce and reduce drag. One of the primary innovations in the T292 was the relocation of the rear brake discs from the wheel hubs to the differential output. This move helped reduce the unsprung weight, improving the car’s handling and overall maneuverability. While the car could accommodate both two-liter and three-liter engines, most T292s were equipped with a 2.0-liter Cosworth BDG engine, producing about 275 horsepower, though some versions carried the Ford Cosworth DFV engine, pushing the power output to 445 horsepower. This gave the T292 remarkable speed, making it competitive in its class.
The Lola T292 quickly established itself as a formidable contender in the European sports car racing scene. It was particularly successful in the European 2-Litre Sports Car Championship, where it competed against other well-established prototypes. Drivers like Chris Craft achieved notable success, with Craft securing the European 2-Litre title in 1973 using the T292.
The car was praised for its nimble handling and speed, often outperforming other cars in its class. In addition to its success in European circuits, the T292 also found popularity among private racing teams, which could modify and upgrade the car to their preferences. The adaptability of the Lola chassis, combined with its reliable performance, made it a favorite for endurance racing, including events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Nürburgring 1000 km, where it competed in the prototype categories.
While the T292 continued the tradition of Lola’s sports-prototype excellence, it was also notable for its production numbers. Lola built 29 units, a relatively high figure for a racing prototype of its era, indicating its commercial success. The model evolved into the T294 the following year, with additional aerodynamic refinements and new engine configurations, although the T292 remained competitive throughout the early 1970s. Despite facing stiff competition from manufacturers like Alpine-Renault, which eventually dominated the 2-liter class, the T292 held its own due to its robustness and speed. Even today, it remains a celebrated car in historic racing, often appearing at classic motorsport events such as the Le Mans Classic and the Goodwood Revival, where it continues to thrill audiences with its distinctive look and powerful engine sound. Its enduring legacy as a competitive and innovative racing car solidifies the Lola T292 as an iconic figure in the history of sports-prototype racing.
In conclusion, the 1973 Lola T292 was a critical step forward in the evolution of Lola’s prototype series, combining advanced engineering with competitive success. Its technical innovations and strong racing pedigree have earned it a place among the iconic sports cars of the 1970s, remembered both for its speed on the track and its impact on the development of prototype racing.
