Fantasy Junction

Description

1959 Lotus 7
s/n MK7853
Bare Aluminum with Black Interior

“Simplify, then add Lightness”. Whether fully attributed to Colin Chapman or simply the lore that surrounds his engineering genius and design acumen, this philosophy is embodied in his cars. And nowhere else is this more evident than in the ground-breaking Lotus 7.

Conceived as a low priced road car suitable for racing and hill climbing, the Lotus 7 first arrived in 1957 as the Series 1. Although Lotus ceased production of the Lotus 7 in 1972, the basic car lives on today via multiple iterations; a tribute to the astonishing engineering of these cars.

Only 243 Series 1 cars were built by Lotus, making them the rarest of all the Lotus Series cars. Originally powered by 40hp 1172 cc side-valve engines, mated to close ratio 4 speed gearboxes, the Series 1 used front lower A arm suspension with an upper transverse spring and a solid rear axle with trailing arms. While this combination might seem to be challenged for speed and performance, one need only consider the 1,100 lb weight and low center of gravity (main chassis tubes being just 5” from the road surface) to understand the capability of these fine road-racing machines. The final touch, of course, was Chapman’s clever use of flat body panels as triangulated unstressed chassis members, adding rigidity to the frame using low cost materials. The body and frame worked in harmony to create a unified rigid structure while delivering an “all purpose” look to the exterior – a look that would become legendary for decades of enthusiasts and motorsports champions.

This particular Series 1 was delivered to a customer in New England who raced it at Lime Rock shortly after delivery. The car subsequently returned to the UK in 1992, ending in up Paris by 2012. Shortly thereafter, it arrived in the US where it has been faithfully maintained in largely original condition. The original BMC 1100 engine was fully rebuilt in the UK by expert Lotus specialists Skiptune utilizing a lightened flywheel and a more responsive cam, resulting in a high revving motor with excellent response in all gears. The current owner also had the gearbox rebuilt by Frank Monise as well as refinements to the suspension, including a three bar linkage added to the rear axle to minimize typical live axle hop and improve overall handling in tighter cornering conditions.

Delightfully finished in polished aluminum with wire wheels, louvered hood, and screened exhaust. This Lotus 7 has been preserved with driving in mind. Properly modified, and the rear live axle has been professionally improved via a three-link suspension. The car now drives very well with this improvement and is well balanced in moderate speed cornering particularly with the newly mounted tires.

The tube frame remains original, still painted in the factory finish. The overall patina throughout the car is consistent and very appropriate for driving duties. Interior components are well presented with weather appropriate vinyl seating contoured to match the basic nature of Lotus engineering. Smith Instruments are nicely maintained with the tachometer having been recently replaced. All have clear lenses and bright lettering over contrasting dials and smooth operating needles. Interior theme continues as “all business” with delightfully exposed frame members, racing style seat belts, and roll bar. Various switches are labeled in a casual but direct manner indicative of the purposeful nature of this car.

The body overall remains very tidy and is believed to be the original factory body as delivered. Front cycle fenders may have been replaced at some point prior to current ownership, but rear fenders appear to be original. Wire wheels and chrome knock offs are in good condition with no major cosmetic flaws and no known structural issues. Belly pan has no major damage, exhibiting minor road rash from years of rewarding use.

In all, this Lotus is a delightful driver quality car with excellent road manners, healthy drive train, updated suspension, and appropriate patina consistent with the happy use of its previous owners. Delightfully lightened by Lotus and driven by enthusiasts, with a light heart.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608