1971 Lotus Elan Roadster

The Lotus Company was founded by Colin Chapman in 1948 and was based on innovative and lightweight construction. The vehicle had starling performance both on and off the track. The company achieved seven Formula 1 Constructor's Championships, six Driver's Championships, and numerous other records and victories. The road-car production fueled and financed the growing racing commitments of Team Lotus.

The Lotus Elan was introduced in 1962. This Elan +2S (2+2) Coupe has been a California-based cars since the mid-1970s. In 1980, it was acquired by Mr. Lee Osborn. A body-off-frame restoration was completed in 1995. Necessary parts were purchased directly from England, being sourced from Caterham and other Lotus specialists.

The Elan was upgraded with CV joins replacing the factory rubber donuts at the rear half-shafts, and the restored backbone frame was carefully and selectively reinforced.

The work was completed in 1995. The Elan made its restoration debut at the Lotus Reunion in conjunction with that year's running of the Monterey Historics. It is finished in light blue with a black interior. It rides on Minilite magnesium wheels, AM/FM radio, stainless steel exhaust, and a wood-grain dash panel.

Power is from a dual overhead cam four-cylinder engine fitted with dual Twin-Choke carburetors. There is a four-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2013