The modern automotive industry is currently defined by a trend of increasing weight and complexity. As electric powertrains and driver-assistance technologies become standard, cars are becoming heavier and more digitally insulated from the driver. Lola Cars, the legendary British racing manufacturer, is positioning itself as the direct antidote to this trend by launching a new duo of high-performance machines designed for pure, visceral driving.
Inspired by the iconic T70 racer of the 1960s, Lola’s new offerings focus on extreme lightweight construction and traditional mechanical engagement.
The T70S GT: A Road-Legal Powerhouse
The T70S GT is designed for those who want the thrill of a supercar on public roads. Unlike many modern performance cars that rely on turbocharging to achieve high power, the GT utilizes a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8.
- Performance: 500 hp and 455 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: A six-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels.
- Speed: 0–62 mph (100 km/h) in 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 200 mph (322 km/h).
By opting for a manual transmission and a naturally aspirated engine, Lola is targeting a niche market of enthusiasts who prioritize throttle response and a tactile connection to the machine over automated shifting and digital complexity.
The T70S: Built for the Track
For drivers who prioritize raw performance over road legality, the T70S serves as the dedicated track variant. This version leans even harder into racing heritage by utilizing a powertrain familiar to Chevrolet enthusiasts.
- Engine: A 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Chevrolet V8.
- Performance: 530 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque.
- Mechanicals: Features a period-correct transaxle, mirroring the architecture of the original 1960s T70.
- Speed: A blistering 0–62 mph (100 km/h) in 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 203 mph (326 km/h).
Innovation Through “Natural” Materials
One of the most significant technical advancements in these new models is not found in the engines, but in the chassis. To achieve such low weights, Lola has moved away from traditional petrochemical-based carbon fiber.
Instead, they have developed the Lola Natural Composite System. This bespoke chassis is constructed from a blend of:
– Plant-based fibers
– Basalt fibers
– Resin derived from sugarcane
This approach provides the structural rigidity and aesthetic of carbon fiber while significantly reducing the environmental footprint. The results are remarkable in terms of mass: the T70S GT weighs just 1,962 lbs (890 kg), while the track-focused T70S is even lighter at 1,895 lbs (860 kg). For context, these vehicles weigh significantly less than a standard Mazda Miata, despite their much higher power outputs.
Why This Matters
Lola’s return—following their 2024 re-entry into Formula E—signals a broader movement in the automotive world: a “back-to-basics” rebellion. As mainstream manufacturers move toward heavy, software-driven vehicles, there is a growing demand for specialized, lightweight, and mechanically pure machines that offer a sense of unfiltered speed.
By combining mid-century racing DNA with sustainable, high-tech composite materials, Lola is attempting to prove that high performance does not have to come at the cost of environmental impact or driver engagement.
**Lola is betting that the future of driving isn’t just about more power, but about less weight
