This car represents the early evolution of the F5000 breed and was the first of the long wheelbase Lola’s, designated T192.
Developed by Australian Frank Gardner whilst employed by Lola in the UK and purchased by Roger Penske Racing on Frank’s recommendation, the car was dispatched to the USA from the Lola works on the 29th August 1970.
In 1970 the Lola was campaigned by Penske in a white livery carrying SUNOCO advertising in the following SCCA Formula A L&M Series Races with Mark Donahue driving.
Bowmansville Ontario - First.
Lexington Ohio - Third.
Sebring Florida - First.
Donohue finished eighth in the series after competing in only 3 of 13 races.
In 1971 the Lola was presented in SUNOCO blue for the inaugural 200 mile Questor Grand Prix at Ontario Motor Speedway in Los Angeles on 28 th March. This event was run for contemporary Formula I and Formula 5000 cars in the company of Andretti (Ferrari), Stewart (Tyrrell), Fittipaldi (Lotus), Peterson (March), Hill & Aussie Tim Schenken (both in Brabhams). After qualifying 7th Mark Donahue managed to keep the Lola in front of the field for a portion of both heats of the race before retiring with fuel starvation.
Brett Lunger subsequently campaigned it throughout the 1971-1972 season in the L&M Series achieving 1 win, 2 thirds and 1 fourth. Lunger finished third overall for the season.
The Lola was purchased by Bob Harborow in 1989 and restored progressively to its original specification and appearance by Victorian motor sport personalities Brian Shead, John Sheppard and Jim Hardman. Later attention by highly respected engine builder Ian Tate produced some 520bhp reliably from the small block Chev.
The Lola has competed regularly in its SUNOCO livery throughout Australasia since 1995.
