The 1:18-scale Lotus 72E (1973) by AUTOart celebrates one of Formula One's most beloved driver-and-car combinations: the spectacular Ronnie Peterson and Lotus's legendary John Player Special-liveried 72E. Widely regarded as one of the fastest natural talents in Grand Prix history, Peterson earned the nickname "SuperSwede" for his fearless car control, breathtaking speed, and ability to extract remarkable performance from even the most demanding machinery. The 1973 season marked his breakthrough at the highest level of motorsport, including his first Formula One victory and four Grand Prix wins overall.

Crafted in high-quality ABS for exceptional precision and surface fidelity, this officially museum-grade replica faithfully recreates the Lotus 72 one of the most successful Formula One designs ever built. Finished in the iconic black-and-gold John Player Special livery, the model features razor-sharp body lines, authentic aerodynamic details, realistic cockpit appointments, and finely rendered mechanical components, including the exposed Cosworth DFV V8 engine, suspension and exhaust. AUTOart's renowned attention to proportion, finish, and historical accuracy results in a display model that captures both the beauty and engineering sophistication of the original race car.

Orders ship from our California facility within 1–2 business days, and every purchase is protected by our 30-day return policy.

Product Overview 

Product Type: Collectible scale model car
Vehicle: Lotus 72E (1973)
Driver: Ronnie Peterson
Color: Black-and-gold livery

Scale: 1:18
Approximate Length: ~10 inches (25.4 cm)
Material: ABS
Manufacturer: AUTOart
Item Number: 87329
Display: Closed box
Condition: New in original manufacturer packaging

Key Collectible Features

• Precision-molded ABS construction with exceptional body accuracy

• Finely detailed Cosworth DFV engine and exhaust assembly

• Realistic rubber tires
  

• Realistic cockpit, suspension, and aerodynamic components

Historical Background: Ronnie Peterson and the Lotus 72E

Few Formula One drivers have inspired as much admiration as Ronnie Peterson. Revered by fellow competitors and fans alike, Peterson possessed extraordinary car control and a spectacular driving style that made him one of the defining talents of the 1970s. Although he never captured a World Championship, he is frequently ranked among the greatest Formula One drivers never to win the title.

The Lotus 72E provided the perfect stage for Peterson's brilliance. An evolution of Colin Chapman's revolutionary Lotus 72 design, the 72E combined advanced aerodynamics, inboard brakes, side-mounted radiators, and excellent chassis balance into a package that remained competitive years after its original introduction. By 1973, the design had already established itself as one of the most successful Formula One cars ever built, and Peterson's aggressive yet precise driving style allowed him to fully exploit its strengths.

Driving the Lotus 72E, Peterson claimed his first Formula One victory and four Grand Prix wins during the 1973 season, finishing third in the World Championship (behind Jackie Stewart and Emerson Fittipaldi) and cementing his reputation as one of the sport's most naturally gifted racers.

Frequently Asked Collector Questions

Does this model have opening parts?
No. This is a sealed ABS model and does not feature opening parts—allowing for greater exterior accuracy and finer detailing.

Does it include a display case?
No. This model comes in AUTOart's closed black box with styrofoam surround, for maximum safety in shipping.

Is the model new?
Yes. It is brand new and unopened in AUTOart's original packaging.

How quickly does it ship?
Orders ship from our California warehouse within 1–2 business days.

Who This Model Is Ideal For

• Collectors of historic 1:18-scale Formula 1 models

• Lotus F1 and Ronnie Peterson fans

• Motorsport historians building a display of the golden age of F1 racing

• Not intended for children under 14 years - not a toy

✅ In stock and ready to ship from California
✅ Secure packaging for collectors
✅ 30-day return policy