**Lotus 18**
The Lotus 18 is a Formula One and Formula Two racing car designed by Colin Chapman and built by Lotus in 1960. It marked a significant advancement in racing car design with its mid-engine layout and lightweight construction.
## Design and Development
The Lotus 18 was the first mid-engined car produced by Lotus, featuring a tubular spaceframe chassis and independent suspension. Its compact design improved handling and weight distribution, setting new standards in motorsport engineering.
## Racing History
Debuting in the 1960 Formula One season, the Lotus 18 achieved multiple victories, including the 1960 Monaco Grand Prix. It was driven by notable racers such as Stirling Moss and Jim Clark, contributing to Lotus’s growing reputation in racing.
## Legacy
The Lotus 18 influenced future racing car designs and helped establish the mid-engine configuration as the norm in Formula One. Its success paved the way for subsequent Lotus models and innovations.
**Meta Description:**
The Lotus 18 is a pioneering 1960 Formula One and Two racing car by Lotus, known for its mid-engine design and competitive success. It played a key role in advancing race car engineering.