| Lotus 23 | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | Lotus Components Ltd. |
| Production | 1962–1963 |
| Designer | Colin Chapman |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Group 4 Sports Car |
| Body style | Open two seater |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 742cc Coventry Climax FWMC 748cc Coventry Climax FWMB Mk.XIII |
| Transmission | 23: Hewland Mk.III 5sp (Renault 4 sp on the first prototype) 23B & 23C: Hewland Mk.IV 23B & 23C with Cosworth Mk.XII or XIII: Hewland Mk.V |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 90 in (2,286 mm) |
| Length | 139 in (3,531 mm) |
| Width | 23 & 23B: 60 in (1,524 mm) 23C: 65 in (1,651 mm) |
| Height | 23 & 23B: 26 in (660 mm) 23C: 27 in (686 mm) |
| Curb weight | 1,000 lb (454 kg) (dry) |
| Chronology | |
| Predecessor | Lotus 17 |
| Successor | Lotus 53 (not built) |
The Lotus 23 was designed by Colin Chapman as a small-displacement sports racing car. Nominally a two-seater, it was purpose-built for FIA Group 4 racing in 1962–1963. Unlike its predecessors Lotus 15 and 17, the engine was mounted amidship behind the driver in the similar configuration developed on Lotus 19.