Lola T90 classic cars for sale

History of the Lola T90

Introduced for the USAC IndyCar series, the Lola T90 marked a transition to a more advanced era of open-wheel racing in the 1960s. Lola Cars, based in the UK, applied cutting-edge design philosophy to meet the demands of a fiercely contested American circuit. Its historic triumph at the 1966 Indianapolis 500, piloted by Graham Hill, not only showcased Lola's engineering but also played a pivotal role in popularising European-built chassis in stateside racing series. The T90’s adaptability to different power units further illustrates its technical versatility during an age of rapid motorsport development.

Model history

The T90 emerged from Lola’s ongoing development of competitive chassis, succeeding earlier models such as the T80 Mark II which helped set the stage for the T90’s successful integration into top-tier American racing. After the T90, Lola continued to iterate on its open-wheel racecars with subsequent models, increasingly refining aerodynamics, weight distribution, and engine compatibility to maintain competitive edge through the late 1960s and 1970s in international racing series.

Highlights of the Lola T90

The Lola T90 is particularly notable for its dual engine compatibility, being able to accommodate both the 4.2-litre Ford Indy V8 and the 2.75-litre turbocharged Offenhauser four-cylinder power unit—each highly regarded in 1960s American racing. This flexibility, combined with advanced chassis engineering, allowed teams to tune the car for varied circuit demands. Winning the 1966 Indy 500 remains a career-defining event in Lola’s racing history, cementing the T90’s place as a technical and competitive reference in the field.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

There are no officially documented special or limited editions of the Lola T90, as is often the case with purpose-built race chassis of this era. Each T90 may, however, possess unique heritage depending on race history, previous ownership, or configuration, specifically those chassis associated with notable teams or drivers such as Graham Hill’s 1966 Indianapolis 500 winner.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific weaknesses or known recurring issues have been officially documented for the Lola T90. Owing to its competition origins and limited numbers, regular inspection of chassis integrity, suspension elements, and drivetrain components is recommended, especially given the high stresses experienced in period racing conditions.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The Lola T90 delivered exceptional performance, courtesy of its mid-mounted Ford Indy V8 or Offenhauser turbocharged engine—offering outputs between 425 and 520 hp. Combined with rear-wheel drive and a tailored open-wheel chassis, the T90 featured impressive top speeds and agile handling suitable for high-speed oval tracks and technical road courses alike. Gearbox and braking systems were engineered to withstand intensive racing loads, focusing on reliability during 500-mile events. - Lola T90 Ford V8: 4.2-litre naturally aspirated, 425–500 hp

• Lola T90 Offenhauser Turbo: 2.75-litre turbocharged inline-four, 520 hp Both versions achieved racing distinction, with the Ford-powered variant claiming victory at the 1966 Indianapolis 500.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Lola T90's design is a pure expression of competitive intent: minimalistic cockpit with controls optimised for endurance races, lightweight body panels shaped for aerodynamics, and exposed open wheels for precise handling response. There is no luxury or concessions to comfort; everything serves performance. Colour schemes were typically dictated by team livery and sponsors, and individual cars may show variations in paint and finishes. Specialized features include custom instrumentation and racing harnesses, as well as modifications unique to certain teams or drivers.

Other relevant features

Given its exclusive utilisation and success in high-level motorsport, the Lola T90 is rarely seen outside of historic racing events, specialist collections, or museum displays. Each existing chassis may carry unique race history, contributing significant provenance to individual cars.

Summary

The Lola T90 remains a pivotal model in the development of successful IndyCar racing chassis. With race-winning credentials at the 1966 Indianapolis 500, advanced engineering for its time, and a design focused strictly on performance, it occupies an unmatched niche among historic racing cars. Each T90 available reflects both technical achievement and motorsport heritage.