The arrival of Lotus shook up motor sport in 1960s and 70s. In Formula One, Colin Chapman made his cars lighter and quicker than anyone else, often challenging the rules.
But not everything he designed was safe. On the roads, Lotus sports cars are an icon of the era.
To discuss this colourful and controversial life, Matthew Parris is joined by the entrepreneur Rohan Silva and motor racing journalist, Maurice Hamilton.
Producer: Chris Ledgard
First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2019.