Among the many celebrations this year were McLaren's 60th and Lotus' 75th anniversaries. Today we take closer look at three great competition cars from these British manufacturers. The newest is this McLaren MP4/1B Cosworth, which was raced by John Watson during the 1982 Formula 1 World Championship. The British driver scored a victory at Caesar's Palace in this car and it later also raced in interim specification with the TAG Porsche V6 engine. Now in private hands, MP4/1B - 5 is regularly raced in the Masters Formula 1 Championship.
Built in 1969, this McLaren M7C Cosworth was still raced by Bruce McLaren himself. The one-off was actually derived from the M10A Formula 5000 and featured a full monocoque chassis. M7C/1 is today owned again by McLaren is equipped with the striking high wings that were in vogue briefly during the 1969 season.
One of the great Lotus sports racers is the Type 15 and this example is the very last built. It was sold to the United States and raced with considerable success. During its period racing career, 628/3 was also campaigned with a small-block Buick V8 engine. Now restored to its original configuration, it is regularly raced by its Danish owner.

Enjoy the links:

1959 Lotus 15 Climax (628/3)

1982 McLaren MP4/1B Cosworth (MP4/1B - 5)

1969 McLaren M7C Cosworth (M7C/1)