Description:

The Lola Mk3 was Lola’s first rear-engined racing car, marking a significant step in the marque’s early competition history. Built in 1961, this is one of just 11 examples produced and is offered in rear-engined, drum-braked Formula Junior specification (Class D2), chassis number BRJ 32. Distinctive, highly competitive and exceptionally well prepared, it represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most eligible and front-running Formula Juniors currently available.

Fitted with its correct period gearbox featuring Hewland internals - Hewland’s very first motorsport application - the car has been meticulously maintained and developed throughout its life. A rare sight in historic racing today, this particular example carries an enviable competition record in recent years. Driven by Peter de la Roche, it played a key role in securing the Formula Junior Championship in 2017, followed by the outright Championship title in 2018, regularly proving capable of running competitively against later machinery.

The car was purchased by the current owner and repatriated from Germany to the UK in 2016, having previously remained in long-term ownership for over 35 years. During that period it was raced extensively across Europe with considerable success, including victories at Spa and the Nürburgring, alongside strong results at Monaco and Monza. Notably, its final race under previous ownership resulted in a podium finish at the Goodwood Revival in 2004. At the 2022 Goodwood Revival, this Lola qualified an impressive 2nd overall for the Chichester Cup before going on to lead the race convincingly, building an advantage of over 8 seconds before a late retirement just two laps from the finish.

Following its return to the UK, the car underwent a comprehensive ground-up restoration by David Abbott during 2016–2017. More recently, in excess of £11,000 has been spent with Michael Hibberd to ensure the car remains in outstanding mechanical condition and fully prepared for continued competitive use.

Barely used since Goodwood in 2022, the Lola is fitted with a low-mileage RM Wilson engine rebuilt in May 2022 and is presented fully prepared for the 2026 historic racing season. The car is supplied with current belts, fire extinguisher and full FIA HTP papers valid until 31 December 2029.

A regular Goodwood invitee for the Chichester Cup,  this Mk3 is an established front-running entrant across virtually any Formula Junior grid. Combining excellent provenance, proven pace and meticulous preparation, it is an exceptionally appealing and competitively priced prospect. 

For sale exclusively with Besley Heritage Ltd: P.O.A 

Website:

https://www.besleyheritage.com

Keyword Search Terms:

Lola Mk3 Ford Formula Junior rear engine Grand Prix FJ historic F1 Hewland Goodwood