The Lotus 77 Formula One racer was designed by Colin Chapman, Geoff Aldridge, and Martin Ogilvie and used during the 1976 F1 season. The car served as a replacement for the Lotus 76, which had been a replacement for the Lotus 72. The Type 76 had modified aerodynamics, a lighter chassis, a longer wheelbase, and a narrower, lower monocoque. It also had a bi-plane rear wing designed to offer increased rear downforce and stability.

The development of the Lotus 76 had been paid for by title sponsor John Player Special, so the 76 was given the chassis number 'John Player Special MK1.'

Unfortunately, the Lotus 76 proved to be a step in the wrong direction, and team drivers insisted on going back to the Lotus 72. Work continued on the Type 76, resulting in the 'B' Spec, which had enlarged sidepods and better cooling.

The Lotus 77 had a slimmer and lighter aluminum monocoque design over the 72 and was powered by the Cosworth DFV engine. It had improved aerodynamics and the radiators were re-positioned to allow better cooling. The front brakes were initially inboard but were later moved outboard in a more conventional design. It was designed to be fully adjustable, so it could have different setup abilities and could vary wheelbase length and track width.

The car was driven by Marion Andretti and Gunnar Nilsson, and both recommended improvements. With the information received from both drivers, Lotus accelerated research and development on the Lotus 78. Development work continued on the Lotus 77, and by mid-season, the performance had improved. At Zandvoort and Mosport Park, the 77 was piloted by Andretti to podium finishes. At the final race of the season - at Fuji Speedway in Japan - Andretti won the race, a full lap from Patrick Depailler and the new world champion James Hunt.

by Dan Vaughan