 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (February 2010) |
_(22277525756).jpg) A Lotus 88 driven by Takuma Sato in 2015 | |||||||||
| Category | Formula One | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Constructor | Team Lotus | ||||||||
| Designer(s) | Colin Chapman Martin Ogilvie | ||||||||
| Predecessor | 81 / 87 | ||||||||
| Successor | 91 | ||||||||
| Technical specifications[1] | |||||||||
| Chassis | Twin-chassis construction | ||||||||
| Suspension (front) | Top rocker arms, lower wishbones, inboard springs | ||||||||
| Suspension (rear) | As front | ||||||||
| Axle track | Front: 1,778 mm (70.0 in) Rear: 1,600 mm (63 in) | ||||||||
| Wheelbase | 2,178 mm (85.7 in) | ||||||||
| Engine | Cosworth DFV 2,993 cc (2.993 L; 182.6 cu in) V8 | ||||||||
| Transmission | Lotus/Hewland 5-speed manual | ||||||||
| Weight | 585 kg (1,290 lb) | ||||||||
| Tyres | Michelin/Goodyear | ||||||||
| Competition history | |||||||||
| Notable entrants | Team Essex Lotus | ||||||||
| Notable drivers | 11.  Elio de Angelis12.  Nigel Mansell | ||||||||
| Debut | 1981 United States Grand Prix West | ||||||||
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The Lotus 88 is an innovative Formula One car designed by Colin Chapman, Peter Wright, Tony Rudd and Martin Ogilvie of Lotus in an effort to maximise the downforce produced by ground effect. The Lotus 88 made its debut at the first practice session of the 1981 season opener, the US Grand Prix West at Long Beach. Although the Lotus 88 was not allowed to race, it was the first Formula One car to use a carbon fibre monocoque chassis and debut at a Grand Prix event. The carbon fibre McLaren MP4 made its first appearance at the third Grand Prix of the season in Argentina.
- ^ Hamilton, Maurice, ed. (1981). "1981 Formula 1 car specifications". Autocourse 1981-82. Hazleton Publishing Ltd. pp. 33–40. ISBN 0-905138-17-1.