1962 Lotus Elite Coupe

The all-new Lotus Elite made its debut in late 1957. Under the bonnet was a Coventry-Climax FWE single overhead cam engine which meant it qualified for the 1300cc racing class, a popular club and endurance racing category. With minimal weight and low-drag fiberglass body, they proved to be potent competitors. Disc brakes and a fully independent suspension completed the handling package. The body design was courtesy of the era's leading aerodynamicist, Frank Costin.

Production came to a close in 1963 after approximately 1,030 examples were built.

This particular example is a late Series II example that wears coachwork by the Bristol Aircraft Company. It was sold new in April 1962 to Hale and Bonnie Hunter of San Anselmo, California. It has remained in California its entire existence. Currently, this unrestored example displays fewer than 23,000 miles and retains its factory finishes throughout.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2015