1964 Lotus Elan Coupe

The Lotus Factory built and raced the Elan 26R. They were created in limited numbers of which there were 45 of the Series 1 and 52 of the Series 2. Many of the standard Elans were modified similarly to 26R specifications and often labeled as a 26R.

The production Elan engine produced just over 100 horsepower. The 26R engines were modified by either Cosworth or BRM to produce horsepower in the 135 through 165 range. The limited-slip differential and gearbox were both encased in magnesium. An oil cooler and an aluminum cross-flow water radiator were both added. Many non-essential items were removed in an effort to reduce the overall weight. The bodywork was enlarged slightly to allow for the wider magnesium wheels.

Most of the Elan R26 models had their pop-up headlights removed and replaced with a cowled lamp arrangement. To give the car extra strength and to protect the driver in case of a roll-over, the vehicles were fitted with a triangulated roll bar. The suspension was strengthened with a competition unit. The brakes were modified with light alloy calipers and racing pads.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2008