1962 Lotus Elite Series 2 SE
Single ownership for 57 years

Registration No: FWC 393
Chassis No: 10659
MOT: Exempt

• A rarer, more desirable 'Special Equipment' example
• Purchased by the vendor in 1969 and fully restored between 2011 and 2013
• Finished in Primrose Yellow with the traditional Series 2 silver roof over a black leather interior
• Fitted with a bespoke overdrive
• Offered for sale with an extremely impressive history file and Swansea V5C

Unveiled at the 1957 London Motor Show, the Elite (Type 14) was not only Colin Chapman's first production road car but also the world's first fibreglass monocoque (a contributory factor to its reputed 1,508lb. kerb weight). Perhaps influenced by the FIA's recently introduced 1,300cc GT racing class, the newcomer's specification included Formula Two-derived all-round independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes (inboard at the rear). Powered by a Coventry-Climax SOHC four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed manual transmission, the basic variant claimed a top speed of over 120mph. The work of Peter Kirwin-Taylor, aerodynamicist Frank Costin and John Frayling, the Coupé's sleek silhouette is still considered a masterpiece. Unsurprisingly, given its radical design (and Chapman's budget constraints), the first running prototype did not emerge until May 10th, 1958. Driven straight to Silverstone by Ian Walker, it promptly won a production sports car race against 1,600cc opposition. As successful abroad as on British circuits, the Elite won its class at Le Mans every year from 1959 to 1964. When the Series II appeared, it brought improvements to the rear suspension and the interior, as well as the option of higher-performance engines such as the twin-Weber Super 95 option, so named for its claimed 95bhp.

Believed to be one of a very limited number of "double dimple" Elites, supposedly built to a higher standard, this rarer, more desirable 'Special Equipment' example was purchased by the vendor in 1969 and treated to a full restoration between 2011 and 2013. Now presenting very well in Primrose Yellow with the traditional Series 2 silver roof over a black leather interior, it is supplied with a spare engine and spare Weber carburettors. Accompanied by a truly remarkable history file, with invoices dating back to 1970, maintenance manuals, Club Elite official letters, and a photo album documenting the restoration.

For more information, please contact:
Angus Fender
angus.fender@handh.co.uk
07943584762