Lola T212 classic cars for sale

History of the Lola T212

The Lola T212 emerged as an evolution of the preceding T210, targeting the new European 2-Litre Sports Car Championship in 1970. Lola, a British manufacturer recognised for its agile and advanced racing prototypes, constructed the T212 to exploit the revised Group 6 regulations. The T212 was a regular on European circuits, where it built a reputation for durability and pace, playing a crucial role in the advancement of prototype sportscar competition during its era.

Model History: Lola T212

The Lola T212 succeeded the earlier T210, retaining the fundamental lightweight aluminium monocoque architecture but with notable aerodynamic and mechanical tweaks for enhanced competitiveness. As a staple of the Group 6 field, the T212 was instrumental in solidifying Lola's standing on international grids. After the T212, Lola developed further iterations aimed at global prototype categories, however, the T212 stands out for its purity and adaptability in period racing.

Highlights and Statistics of the Lola T212

Among sports prototypes, the Lola T212 is especially known for its lightweight chassis, sharp handling, and engineering tailored for the 2-litre class. Its racing exploits made it a favourite among privateer teams and professional drivers looking for an edge in European endurance competition.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Rare Models

References to specific special editions of the Lola T212 are limited. Most chassis were individually tailored by teams, with unique setups and engineering variations dependent on the customer's intended racing use. Some cars may have benefited from bespoke engine installations or aerodynamic packages, but no formal factory special series is documented.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific weaknesses or typical fault patterns are documented for the Lola T212. As is common with prototype racers of this era, any car's long-term reliability hinges on meticulous maintenance, proper mechanical care, and ensuring that period racing modifications have been professionally executed or corrected during restoration.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

With its low weight and purpose-built racing suspension, the Lola T212 delivers immediate steering response and remarkable traction for a classic prototype. When powered by a contemporary 2-litre engine (such as a Cosworth or BMW inline-four), performance remains competitive in historic racing today. Gearboxes are typically racing-spec, and handling was a benchmark in 1970s European sportscar circles. Within the T212 series, examples fitted with proven, period-correct powerplants attract special attention. Original FIA paperwork, race history, and authentic setup (brake, suspension, bodywork) are key criteria for discerning collectors.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Lola T212 bears the purposeful look of a purebred racer: low-profile fibreglass bodywork, open cockpit, and minimalistic interior focused on weight savings. Accessories are limited; each component serves a functional purpose in pursuit of speed. Period details such as exposed rivets, straightforward gauge clusters, and race-specific bucket seats define its appearance. Designer Eric Broadley ensured every element of the car prioritised aerodynamic efficiency and mechanical access, emphasising form-follows-function British motorsport design.

Other Features

Many Lola T212s were customer-delivered as bare chassis to be finished by various racing teams, which can lead to significant differences in specification even among original cars. Some units may carry rare period modifications, such as alternative rear wings or customer-specific livery, further boosting their individuality and historical interest.

Summary

The Lola T212 fulfils a unique niche among classic racing cars, combining robust period engineering with a pure racing pedigree. Classic Trader statistics confirm its significance within the Lola cohort, both in supply and demand. For those seeking a classic prototype with a direct lineage to the golden days of 2-litre European endurance racing, the Lola T212 stands in a league of its own.