Lot details
Registration No: GYN174N
Chassis No: 73121999L
Mot Expiry: April 2011

"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).

Lotus first applied the Elan name to its small 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, rather lacking in space and in June 1967 Lotus introduced 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 both 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.

The example offered was built in 1974 and is finished in white complemented by a tan vinyl/cloth interior. It represents the last incarnation of the model and thus has a five rather than four-speed manual gearbox - hence the 130/5 designation. The vendor describes the coachwork, paintwork, interior trim, engine, gearbox and electrical equipment as "very good" and informs us that the original service book and 23 old MOT certificates appear to confirm the indicated mileage of just over 70,000 as genuine. Unlike some of today's Elans that have been completely restored, he tells us this is a largely original car that has simply been well maintained throughout its life. Within the history file are invoices totaling thousands of pounds, plus the current MOT which runs until almost the end of April 2011.