## The First Rear-Engine Car to Win the Indy 500
The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most prestigious and well-known races in the world. It is a 500-mile race held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the state of Indiana, United States. The race was first run in 1911 and has been held every year since then, except for during the two World Wars.
For many years, the Indy 500 was dominated by front-engine cars. However, in 1965, a rear-engine car finally won the race. The car was the Lotus 38, driven by Jim Clark.
### The Lotus 38
The Lotus 38 was a revolutionary car for its time. It was the first car to use a rear-mounted engine in the Indy 500. The rear-mounted engine gave the car a number of advantages over its front-engine rivals.
First, the rear-mounted engine allowed for a more aerodynamic design. The front of the car could be made more streamlined, which reduced drag and increased speed.
Second, the rear-mounted engine improved weight distribution. This gave the car better handling and stability.
Third, the rear-mounted engine made it easier to service the car. The engine could be accessed more easily from the rear of the car, which made it quicker and easier to make repairs.
### Jim Clark
Jim Clark was one of the greatest drivers in the history of motor racing. He was a two-time Formula One World Champion and won the Indianapolis 500 in 1965.
Clark was known for his smooth driving style and his ability to get the most out of his car. He was also a very courageous driver, and he was not afraid to take risks.
### The 1965 Indianapolis 500
The 1965 Indianapolis 500 was a close race. Clark started from pole position, but he was soon overtaken by Mario Andretti. Andretti led for most of the race, but Clark stayed close behind him.
With just a few laps to go, Clark finally made his move. He passed Andretti and took the lead. Clark held on to win the race by a margin of just 0.7 seconds.
Clark’s victory was a major breakthrough for rear-engine cars. It showed that rear-engine cars could be competitive with front-engine cars, and it opened the door for more rear-engine cars to compete in the Indy 500.
### The Legacy of the Lotus 38
The Lotus 38 is one of the most important cars in the history of the Indianapolis 500. It was the first rear-engine car to win the race, and it helped to pave the way for the dominance of rear-engine cars in the Indy 500.
The Lotus 38 is still considered to be one of the most beautiful race cars ever built. It is a testament to the genius of Colin Chapman, the designer of the car.
### Conclusion
The Lotus 38 was a revolutionary car that changed the face of the Indianapolis 500. It was the first rear-engine car to win the race, and it helped to pave the way for the dominance of rear-engine cars in the Indy 500. The Lotus 38 is a testament to the genius of Colin Chapman, the designer of the car.
