Lot details Registration No: ETN473K Chassis No: 0324E Mot Expiry: June 2020
- A genuine Sprint model which was reconfigured as a Drophead Coupe when restored 1992-1999
- Upgraded Spyder chassis complete with Spyder wishbones and solid driveshafts. Also boasts an alloy radiator, electric fan, electronic ignition, stainless steel exhaust, alternator, alloy fuel tank etc
- Seats refurbished in 2017 and bodywork repainted to a very high standard in 2018
- Owned by a former Financial Director of the London Lotus Centre
"The Elan remains the definitive small-bore sportscar, the standard by which all others have come to be measured" (Car & Driver magazine, December 1989)
Brainchild of Lotus design and development engineer Ron Hickman, the Elan was introduced at the 1962 Earls Court Motor Show and promptly redefined its class in terms of ride, handling and performance. Arguably the ultimate Elan derivative, the Sprint arrived in February 1971. Characterised by its 'Big Valve' (126bhp / 113lbft) engine and bold colour schemes, the model was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 6.7 seconds and 121mph. Only in production until August 1973, the Sprint remains keenly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
A genuine Sprint, `ETN 473K' began life as a fixed head coupe but was fitted with a brand new drophead coupe body (not a chop) as part of a seven-year long restoration (1992-1999) that also saw it uprated with a replacement Spyder chassis. As well as being far more corrosion resistant, the latter boasts stronger wishbones and solid driveshafts. Further benefiting from an alloy radiator, electric fan, electronic ignition, stainless steel exhaust, alternator and alloy fuel tank, the Lotus is said to be `very well sorted indeed'. Treated to refurbished seats in 2017 and a very high quality repaint / refurbished wheels last year, the Elan is described by the vendor's agent as `very good' (electrical equipment) or `excellent' (engine, gearbox, bodywork, paintwork, interior trim). A former Financial Director of the London Lotus Centre, the seller has owned nine Elans over the years plus various MGs, Ferraris and even a Ford GT40! Considerably less expensive than an original Sprint Drophead in comparable condition, `ETN 473K' is worthy of close inspection. Accompanying documentation includes a large history file dating back to 1979 and a copy of `Rebuilding of an Elan' by Brian Buckland.
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