1956 Lotus Eleven Sports Racer

This original Lotus Eleven Series 1 LeMans model was shipped new to the United States for buyer Gary Laughlin, a 1950s-era driver from Texas. According to Laughlin, he never took delivery, but instead sold the car as it sat at port to Skitch Henderson, the original bandleader of The Tonight Show.

By the early 1970s, the Lotus was in the care of Bill 'Murph' Mayberry. It is believed that Mayberry raced the Eleven occasionally, the car the car's mileage was ultimately limited by accident damage to the rear end. Mayberry purchased the rear frame from another Eleven, chassis 218, and had it welded to MK 11/190's chassis.

In 1975, the car was purchased by Noel Thompson. In 1986, Mr. Thompson sold the Lotus to John Reich of Pennsylvania, who drove it sparingly. In the late 1980s, the engine was freshened. The current owner acquired the car in 2010.

This Lotus retains most of its original bodywork, as well as its original engine and chassis data plate. The close-ratio 'A' series transmission is also believed to be original. Over the years, it has been given several upgrades including the installation of Weber carburetors, which match the specifications of the race-ready LeMans 85 variation.

In 2012, the car was offered for sale at the Gooding & Company auction held in Pebble Beach, California. it was estimated to sell for $150,000 - $180,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $100,000, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2012