In 1964, journalist Gérard Crombac convinced Ford France, Sport-Auto magazine, and Europe 1 radio to launch one of the first French promotional campaigns by purchasing a series of Lotus Sevens -sold as kits to be assembled- from Colin Chapman, the founder of Lotus.

The challenge for each of the 19 teams participating in this Coupe des Provinces was to assemble their car, fine-tune it, and race it in a series of circuit races. It was car No. 14 from the Ecurie du Lyonnais -driven notably by Robert “Jimmy” Mieusset, Jean Pin, François Lacarau, and Georges Martin, under the leadership of Bonnet and Feugier- that won both editions of the Cup, in 1964 and 1965.

• Multi-tube chassis.
• Ford 4-cylinder overhead-valve engine. 1,498 cm3, 90/95 hp.
• Ford 4-speed transmission with reverse.
• Front suspension with independent wheels and coil springs.
• Rear suspension with a rigid axle and combined spring/shock absorber units.
• Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulically operated without power assistance.
• Aluminum and polyester body.
• Weight: 480 kg.
• Top speed: 124 mph