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Lotus Type 79

F1 (1991)Race Sim Studio
510 hp
Horsepower
575 kg
Weight
RWD
Drivetrain
1978
Year

Lotus Type 79 (Formula One)

The Lotus Type 79 is one of the most iconic ground-effect Formula One cars ever built, a late-1970s masterpiece that turned aerodynamic philosophy into a championship-winning weapon. Famous for its revolutionary sidepod tunnels and razor-sharp black-and-gold Lotus livery, it represents the peak of the era’s elegant, lightweight engineering.

Key Specs (BoP-dependent, typical sim values)

  • Powertrain: 3.0L naturally aspirated Cosworth DFV 90° V8, mid-mounted and longitudinal

  • Total Output: ~510 hp

  • Redline: ~10,500 rpm

  • Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox

  • Weight: ~575 kg minimum

  • Dimensions: ~4,300 mm long × 1,800 mm wide × 1,000 mm tall

  • Tires: Period-style slick racing tires on lightweight magnesium wheels

  • Brakes: Ventilated disc brakes

  • Layout: Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive

In the Simulator Feel

The Type 79 is a light, precise, and deeply rewarding classic F1 car that lives on momentum, balance, and aerodynamic grip. It feels alive through high-speed corners, where the ground-effect bodywork clamps the car to the track, but it also demands respect because there is very little electronic assistance to save a sloppy input. Compared to modern machinery, everything happens with more delicacy — braking, steering, and throttle application all need to be measured and deliberate.

Engine & Sound: The Cosworth DFV is one of motorsport’s great sounds, with a hard-edged, mechanical V8 wail that builds into a glorious high-rpm scream. It has a raw, urgent character and a very direct throttle response, making every upshift and overrun feel mechanical and alive.

Handling Characteristics:

  • Cornering: Exceptional grip in fast bends thanks to ground effect, with crisp turn-in when the car is settled.

  • Traction: Good mechanical traction for the era, but wheelspin is easy to trigger if you’re too aggressive on corner exit.

  • Braking: Strong for a classic F1 car, though the pedal feel and lockup threshold require finesse.

  • Top Speed: Very competitive for its time, especially on flowing circuits where aero efficiency matters.

Driving Style Tip: Drive it smoothly and trust the aero. The Type 79 rewards commitment in fast sections and punishes abrupt inputs, so focus on keeping the chassis balanced and the tires in their window. It shines on circuits with long, fast corners like Zandvoort, Silverstone, and Jarama.

Livery & Aesthetics: The Type 79 is one of the most beautiful F1 cars ever made, with its low-slung profile, sculpted sidepods, and unmistakable black-and-gold John Player Special livery. In sim form, it looks every bit the legend — timeless, elegant, and aggressively purposeful.

Whether you’re chasing period-correct lap times or just enjoying one of the most important cars in F1 history, the Lotus Type 79 delivers pure vintage grand prix magic.