Legendary Mario Andretti’s Championship-Winning Lola T800 Cosworth Up for Auction
In the world of motorsports, few names resonate as profoundly as Mario Andretti’s. Revered for his unparalleled success across multiple racing disciplines, Andretti’s legacy is immortalized by his remarkable victories in Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR, and the World Sportscar Championship. Now, a rare opportunity arises for racing aficionados to own a piece of his illustrious history.
The spotlight falls on Andretti’s 1984 championship-winning Lola T800 Cosworth, a symbol of his dominance in the CART PPG Indy Car World Series. Securing victory in this prestigious series by a mere 13-point margin over his closest competitor, Andretti piloted the Lola T800 to triumph at iconic circuits like Meadowlands and Mid-Ohio.
Crafted under the banner of Newman-Haas Racing, in collaboration with the esteemed Lola importer Carl Haas and Hollywood legend Paul Newman, this Lola T800 Cosworth represents the pinnacle of racing engineering from the era. With only five ever produced, chassis number HU2 stands as a testament to Andretti’s mastery behind the wheel.
Powered by a formidable 2.65-liter Cosworth engine and featuring a five-speed manual transmission, this Lola T800 boasts an illustrious racing pedigree. Clad in the iconic 1984 Budweiser red livery, its carbon fiber longtail body conceals a honeycomb aluminum tub, showcasing the epitome of racing technology from the era.
Having spent years as a prized possession in the Haas Collection, this historic racing machine now seeks a new custodian. Auctioned by Mecum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis on May 16, the Lola T800 Cosworth is expected to command bids ranging from $400,000 to $450,000.
For enthusiasts and collectors alike, this auction presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire a tangible piece of motorsport history. The legacy of Mario Andretti, immortalized by his championship-winning Lola T800 Cosworth, continues to captivate and inspire generations of racing enthusiasts worldwide.
