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1972 GRD 372 news, pictures, and information

Chassis Num: 372-021
 
Lotus had wanted to pursue more financially lucrative endeavors such as their road car production and closed their racing car division. In 1971, Lotus Components closed and many of the staff left to form GRD, Group Racing Developments. GRD was set up to supply privateers with racing cars and equipment. Individuals such as Mike Warner, Derek Wil, Gordon Huckle, and Dave Baldwin who had been very instrumental in Lotus's racing success were now in charge of their own company. The emblem chosen was a Phoenix. Soon, Joe Marquart was working as chief designer for GRD.

This particular Lotus/GRD 372 car bears chassis number 372-021 and was constructed in 1972. It was originally built to Formula 3 specifications and later updated to 1600cc Formula B/Atlantic specs and was driven by Pedro Passadore.

In Formula 3 European competition the car was driven by Frenchman Pierre Francois Rousselot. Sponsorship was from Gitane Cigarettes. His best finish in the car was a second place finish at Chimay and at Chermont. A third place finish was achieved at Thruxton. A fourth place finishes were achieved at Mallory Park, Estoril, and Caldwell. 4 fifth place finishes were also achieved.

In 1995 the car was treated to a chassis-up restoration and was issued European FIA papers.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2007
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