Challenge anyone who was around in the 1960s about which British manufacturer produced the best overall Grand Prix cars and chances are they’d say Lotus.

In international terms Colin Chapman’scompany was only ever a small volume producer but the size of their output never reflected the knowledge, expertise and skill which went into the road and race cars.

This newly updated programme looks at the key models of the 1950s and 1960s such as the Eleven which set international speed records for their size which still stand.

On the road front we look at such trend setters as the Elite, Elan and Espirit.

The innovation, excitement and style of Lotus continues to send shivers down the spines of today’s thrill seekers as it builds cars like the Elise, Evora and Exige.

The Best of British Series is produced independently but made with the full co-operation of the subject manufacturers. It is not officially licensed or endorsed by them.