The Lotus 72 is a Formula One car designed by Colin Chapman and Maurice Philippe of Lotus for the 1970 Formula One season.
The car was developed during 1971 by Tony Rudd who had formerly worked at BRM.
He worked especially on redesigning the rear suspension and modified
the rear wing to produce more downforce. Fittipaldi struggled during the
season but scored good results and finished a respectable sixth, whilst
the following season was much better. The development work done behind
the scenes helped him become the youngest world champion in F1's history
in 1972 winning five races in the 72, whilst Lotus again won the
constructors' championship. The car now sported a striking paintscheme
of black and gold; Imperial Tobacco
had introduced a new brand, and decided to increase exposure and
provide more funds to Lotus as part of the deal. Lotus was now sponsored
by John Player Special cigarettes.
