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Lotus - Classics (1956)
Step back to the golden age of motor sport with the iconic Lotus Classics 1956. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just discovering the world of vintage Lotus, the allure of this lightweight, high‑performance machine is undeniable. In today’s online marketplace, the Lotus Classics price of a 1956 model varies dramatically by mileage, finishes, and provenance, but it remains a coveted asset for enthusiasts worldwide.
Key Specifications (1956 Lotus)
- Engine: 1,500‑cc Up–Turbine six‑valve inline‑four, producing roughly 90 hp at 5,600 rpm.
- Transmission: 4‑speed manual, driver‑only, with close gear ratios tailored for agility.
- Fuel type: Regular petrol (SP95/AVGAS). Modern owners sometimes opt for high‑octane blends to preserve performance.
- Dimensions: Length: 3,815 mm (141 in); Width: 1,720 mm (67.7 in); Height: 1,095 mm (43.1 in).
- Wheelbase: 2,200 mm (86.6 in).
- Weight: 537 kg (1,184 lb) dry, no battery included.
- Top speed: Approximately 180 km/h (112 mph), depending on gear settings and chassis condition.
- Brakes: Front drum (2‑" diameter), rear drum (1.5 " diameter) with optional upgrade kits.
- Suspension: Live rear axle with torsion bar; front independent with coil springs.
- Chassis: Tubular steel spaceframe, tubular wheels, unusually lightweight for its era.
- Interior: Simplistic, with a single handgrip gear lever, basic instrumentation, and optional removable passenger seats.
Depreciation Insight
The classic car market behaves differently from everyday vehicles. The Lotus Classics depreciation curve is typically smoother, with the most significant drop occurring shortly after the first sale.
- First year: 15‑20% typical loss from the purchase price as owners generally wait to audit structural integrity.
- Years 2‑5: 5‑7% annual decline; the vehicle’s heritage preserves value.
- Beyond five years: 3‑5% annual depreciation, often offset by restoration efforts or rare features.
Given these approximations, a 1956 Lotus that once sold for £12,000 may still command a strong resale price—especially if it’s in mint condition or carries an original build sheet.
What Is a 1956 Lotus Worth?
When you ask, “what is a 1956 Lotus Classics worth?” the answer is multi‑faceted. The market varies across regions, but generic benchmarks include:
- Excellent condition (low mileage, full documentation): £12,000–£16,000.
- Good condition (mileage increase, minor cosmetic flaws): £8,500–£10,500.
- Needs restoration (visible wear, missing components): £5,000–£7,500.
Note that documented provenance, race history, and original parts can drive a vehicle’s desirability beyond these ranges.
Comparison Context
In the niche of 1950s Lotus and British sports cars, the 1956 Lotus Classics often competes with contemporaries like the MGA and Elan G3. While the MGA typically offers more horsepower (around 110 hp), the Lotus’s lighter weight grants superior nimbleness. Conversely, the MGA’s robust aftermarket parts ecosystem can lower maintenance costs. For collectors, the choice hinges on whether the chase is for performance per se or overall market resilience.
Market Position Statement
Within the classic car sector, the Lotus Classics 1956 occupies a
Last 20 car trackeds
| Last tracked date | Status | Price | Price rank | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 4 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links | |
| 5 years ago | used | £54,500.00 | Unlock all links |