The automotive industry is currently defined by a paradox: cars are faster and more capable than ever, yet they are increasingly heavy, digitally complex, and disconnected from the driver. In response to this trend, Lola Cars —the storied British racing manufacturer—is looking backward to move forward.
Following its 2024 resurgence through Formula E, Lola is introducing a new limited-run series inspired by its iconic 1960s T70 racer. These new machines are designed to strip away the digital clutter, offering a raw, “back-to-basics” driving experience that prioritizes weight reduction and mechanical purity.
The Lineup: Two Flavors of Performance
Lola is launching two distinct versions of the T70, catering to both the enthusiast who wants to drive on public roads and the purist who lives for the circuit.
The T70S GT: Road-Legal Sophistication
Designed for the street, the T70S GT focuses on high-performance usability.
– Engine: 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8
– Output: 500 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque
– Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
– Performance: 0–62 mph in 2.9 seconds; 200 mph top speed
The T70S: The Track-Focused Specialist
For those seeking uncompromising speed, the track-only T70S utilizes a more aggressive powertrain and a layout reminiscent of its 1960s predecessor.
– Engine: 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Chevrolet V8
– Output: 530 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque
– Transmission: Period-correct transaxle
– Performance: 0–62 mph in 2.5 seconds; 203 mph top speed
Innovation Through Sustainability: The Natural Composite System
While the driving philosophy is nostalgic, the engineering is cutting-edge. Lola is tackling the environmental impact of high-performance manufacturing through its Lola Natural Composite System.
Instead of relying solely on traditional, petroleum-based carbon fiber, Lola has developed a bespoke lightweight chassis using:
– Plant-based fibers
– Basalt fibers
– Resin derived from sugarcane
This approach provides the structural rigidity and aesthetic of carbon fiber without the heavy reliance on petrochemicals. This focus on material science is the primary reason for the cars’ extraordinary power-to-weight ratios. The T70S GT weighs just 1,962 lbs (890 kg), while the track-only T70S is even lighter at 1,895 lbs (860 kg).
Why This Matters
Lola’s move signals a growing niche in the automotive market: the “analog supercar.” As mainstream manufacturers move toward electrification and heavy driver-assistance systems, a segment of collectors and enthusiasts is seeking the exact opposite—mechanical engagement, manual gearboxes, and extreme lightness. By combining mid-century racing DNA with sustainable, modern composite technology, Lola is positioning itself as a leader in a market that values soul and sensation over sheer digital processing power.
By prioritizing lightweight natural composites and manual transmissions, Lola is betting that the future of driving excitement lies in reclaiming the simplicity of the past.
