Most pretty British sports cars of the 1960s and ’70s have appreciated
beyond the means of entry-level collectors
beyond the means of entry-level collectors
The original Lotus Elan was introduced in 1962 as a roadster, although an optional hard top was offered in 1963 and a coupe version in 1965. It was the first Lotus road car to use the now-famous steel backbone chassis with a fiberglass body. The Elan was technologically advanced, with a twin-cam 1,558-cc engine, four-wheel disc brakes, and four-wheel independent suspension. An Elan 2+2, called the Plus 2 or +2, was introduced in 1967 with a longer wheelbase and two rear seats. An estimated total of 17,000 original Elans and Plus 2s were built.
Sports Car International named the Elan number six on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1960s. The original Elan is commonly credited as being the design inspiration for the highly successful 1990 Mazda Miata. In fact, two Elans were intimately evaluated by Mazda in the process of designing the Miata.
This 1970 Lotus Elan Plus2 coupe is a classic example of Lotus success, excellent performance, and amazing handling. The car has been completely restored off the frame and shows its quality very well.
The engine is a 4-cylinder, DOHC unit, with cast aluminum cylinder head. The original 1,558-cc engine with twin Strombergs puts out about 108 horsepower and purrs like a kitten. The exterior is finished in a bright red with black fixed top, and both show obvious signs of a detailed and careful restoration.
The interior is restored to original in black and is in great condition, with matching black carpeting and a very rare option-power windows. The engine bay is detailed to show standard, as is the underside. The undercarriage and body are extremely solid. Overall, this Elan Plus 2 Coupe runs and drives extremely well and is ready to show or to take to any vintage event, where this car would be happily accepted.
(Introductory description courtesy of Worldwide Group.)