Fantasy Junction

Description

1972 Lotus Elan 2 Plus 2
s/n 50/0163-N Engine no. U 124832
Red with Black interior

The Lotus Elan first appeared in October 1962 at the British International Motor Show at Earls Court, where many other competitors unveiled their mighty engines and horsepower ratings. Against these big, powerful, and expensive machines, the lightweight and nimble Elan offered a totally different car: a modern, simple design, delivering tremendous driving fun. Lotus packed the Elan with innovative technical features including a fiberglass body draped over the first backbone chassis of any road car, and four-wheel independent suspension. Lotus would later revolutionize racing with their monocoque 25, further enhancing Lotus’ racing lineage. By 1967 the Elan +2 arrived with a longer wheelbase and two additional rear seats. The package proved successful selling very well until 1975. The twin cam 4-cylinder 1557cc Lotus engine put out 126bhp delivering a surprising 0-60 7.9-second time with a top speed of 120mph. In all, the Elan series became Lotus’s most popular car receiving multiple motorsports press accolades including Sports Car International ranking it 6th among top ten cars of the 1960’s.

This example has been in a personal collection for more than a decade, having driven only 34,000 miles, which are believed to be correct given the overall condition of this car. The current owner has significant knowledge regarding Lotus cars and has owned and restored multiple versions of the Elan series as part of his extensive Northern California car collection. His cars are properly sorted and nicely maintained, with driving in mind. The car was delivered to the first owner in July 1971, with the current owner purchasing it in 2006 from Dale Herrick, Topeka, Kansas. Randy Herrick of The Reliable Car Shop performed much of the restoration work. There was no damage to the bodywork, however, the car was repainted in the original color to improve the condition of the faded factory paint (Lotus Carnival Red - Lo5). During the restoration process and throughout the current ownership, the car has been maintained and serviced as a driver quality car.

The paint is in good condition overall, presenting very nicely with good gloss overall. There are some minor marks from use but none of significance. The bodywork appears to be free of structural damage with doors, hood and trunk exhibiting very nice fit and closure considering the fiberglass bodies often seen on lesser-preserved examples. The interior appears to be original to the car with some wear as seen in the photos, and a bit of staining on the headliner. Seat surfaces have been nicely preserved, however the front seat seam will need to be re-sewn along a small portion of the left drivers bolster. Rear seats and seat bottoms are in good condition overall as are the door panels. The wood fascia is in reasonably nice condition showing some aging in various places, but otherwise maintaining a nice gloss to the veneer. The instruments appear to be functioning properly displaying both good oil pressure and steady water temperature. The ammeter indicates the electrical system is charging, however the radio is currently not functional. The glass throughout the car appears to be original and in nice condition. The car is fitted with new Centerlock wheels and new Firestone tires. The undercarriage is very tidy but not detailed. Here again, there is no evidence of any structural damage, merely general use.

Under the hood, the engine is very clean and has been nicely finished with a handsome original appearance. The Elan starts easily and settles into a smooth throaty idle, ready to meet your driving expectations. The gearbox is smooth in all gears with easy and quick movement, however if you are a driver that likes to hold the clutch down for extended periods of time, you will notice it starting to bog down, indicating the hydraulics will need some attention in the future. The acceleration is quite brisk and enjoyable. Cornering is quite good overall and the longer wheelbase delivers a smoother “touring” ride even for admittedly diminutive rear seat passengers. Braking is very good from all four discs. In all, this Elan delivers delightful driving and sporting pleasure consistent with the Lotus marque

This Lotus Elan +2 offers a unique ownership experience for an enthusiast who wants a nice driver quality car at a very affordable price. The responsive twin cam engine and twin Weber carburetors are certain to deliver delightful sounds and driving excitement on any open road.

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