Essex Lotus 1980        

The 1980 season was De Angelis' first full season in F1, and he found himself teamed with the vastly experienced Mario Andretti.  As the season progressed. it was clear that the young Italian was more than a match for his experienced counterpart, but this did not stop the two drivers from becoming good friends.  Elio's 2nd place at Interlagos was the highlight of the season, and had Rene Arnoux's Renault failed in the closing laps, Elio would have become the youngest GP winner ever.  The season was of course marred with controversy over the Lotus 88's twin-chassis design, which was eventually banned by FISA, and which no doubt caused Chapman to lose some of this enthusiasm.

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