Colin Chapman Wayward Genius
Colin Chapman was a pioneering engineer who revolutionized grand prix car design and played a central role in shaping the British motor racing industry. Through his Lotus company, Chapman dominated Formula 1 and made significant contributions to sports car development with models like the Elite and Elan.
In Mike Lawrence's biography, the remarkable achievements of Chapman are highlighted, along with a look at the darker side of his genius. Chapman's Formula 1 successes in the 1960s and 1970s, including world championships, grand prix wins, and victory at the Indianapolis 500, remain unmatched. He worked with legendary drivers such as Graham Hill, Jim Clark, Jochen Rindt, and Mario Andretti.
The Lotus single-seaters, including the 25, 49, 72, and 79, are now seen as milestones in racing car evolution. However, Chapman's driven nature, his push for success, and his unconventional business practices complicated his legacy.
Lawrence's book explores this side of Chapman's life, revealing the financial struggles that kept Lotus afloat and examining how he thrived in the high-pressure world of international motorsport and car manufacturing. The book also covers Chapman's involvement with John Z. Delorean and the failed DeLorean car company.
Information
Author: | Mike Lawrence |
Details: | 276 pages, 23.5 x 16 x 1.9 cm / 9.25 x 6.3 x 0.75 in, paperback |
Illustrations: | 32 b&w photos |
Publisher: | Brooklands Books (GB, 2012) |
ISBN: | 9781855209503 |