Lot details Registration No: PAH769M Chassis No: 731218381 Mot Expiry: July 2013
"The uncanny cornering powers of this remarkable machine equal and probably exceed those of any production car we have driven before: similarly the handling and brakes are certainly not bettered." (Motor magazine, September 1967, re the +2).
Lotus first applied the Elan name to its small Ron Hickman-designed two-seater Roadster of 1962. It comprised a steel backbone chassis clothed in a lightweight fibreglass body. Power came from a 1558cc Cosworth twin-cam version of Ford's ubiquitous 'Kent' engine. With independent suspension all round and four wheel disc brakes, the Elan was both light and nimble. It was, however, lacking in space and in June 1967 Lotus introduced another Hickman masterpiece - the Elan +2 Coupe for those that needed more accommodation. Based on a suitably lengthened/widened version of its smaller sibling's chassis, the newcomer enjoyed better aerodynamics and superior grip (thanks to a 0.30 drag co-efficient and six-inch wider track/fatter tyres). And, as the name suggests, it offered two extra seats - in the company's own words, 'The +2 is designed to carry two adults and two children on a long holiday in comfort'. The +2S 130 version went on sale in February 1971, bringing with it a welcome a welcome boost in performance. Powered by a 'Big Valve' version of the same twin-cam engine, the +2 was now capable of 121mph and 0-60mph in 7.4 seconds. Thanks to the efficient aerodynamics, fuel consumption remained within 25 to 31mpg.
The right-hand drive +2 130 on offer vacated the Hethel plant in 1973 and sports Red bodywork teamed with Cream leather upholstery. Its history file contains an old style V5, numerous mainly parts bills from the late '90s/early '00s, a selection of old MOTs and one valid into July 2013. The vendor describes the Lotus' paintwork and interior as "very good throughout".
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