The Type 79 Mario Andretti used to win an F1 Championship

When it comes to iconic race cars, the John Player Special ranks up there. Mario Andretti used this very car to clinch the Formula 1 World Championship, the last time an American won the title.

Numerous things make this Formula 1 race car special. One overlooked aspect is that this was the last car Lotus used to win a Formula 1 Constructors’ World Championship.

“Of all the race cars I ever drove–that 79 is my favorite,” said Mario Andretti.

Find this 1978 Lotus-Cosworth Ford Type 79 John Player Special up for auction at Bonhams, with an estimated value of $6,500,000-$9,500,000.

As a kid, I came across one of those round, plastic John Player cigarette containers behind my grandparents’ bar down in the basement. 

Was there a Lotus inside? I wondered. Sadly, no, so I put it back. 

At the time, I had no idea that the company made cigarettes. 

Photo from an eBay listing:

It's such an iconic livery. And, such a piece of history. I hope it goes to a good home.