Descrizione
There was certainly never any doubt that Colin Chapman was both a maverick and an engineering genius, but it was his talent of extracting every ounce of enthusiasm and ability from his designers and engineers, which when combined with his own dogged determination, destined Lotus to make imaginative and winning cars. The Elan with its great chassis, brilliant suspension and a sparkling twin cam engine, knocks into a cocked hat, many of todays modern open two seaters and was at the time, the perfect example of his company's inhouse collaboration.
Our little yellow Elan Sprint here was dispatched from the factory in November 1972 straight to Bell & Colvill, where after a couple of months wait, it was delivered to its first keeper in February 1973. Today it remains as built in its factory yellow and cirrus white paintwork, together with almost blemish free original interior. The only option specified on the Lotus Certificate of Provenance, is the factory fitted 3. 55:1 differential. Interestingly, it was the 95th from last UK Sprint drophead coupe and the 17th from last in Lotus yellow.
The car, unusually, has a Lenham hardtop which arguably is easier to attach than it is to raise the soft top! The history file is extensive and provides ample proof of the stated mileage, as Mots go back to 1983 plus there is helpfully, copious invoices and detailed notes recorded by two of its dedicated owners between 1983 and 1998 of journeys, mileages and works undertaken.
This Sprint has been part of a small but highly prized collection, and as a consequence, has been beautifully looked after by it renowned horologist owner who recently commissioned a respray in the correct Lotus yellow (L07) and corresponding cirrus white (L04) paintwork.
Whilst leafing through the history file I noticed a recent rolling road set up/ tune invoice on file, the lure of the little twin cam proved too much and I've managed quite a few miles behind the wheel; it really is a phenomenal little car to drive, hugely agile plus has plenty of grunt and very pleasingly, comfortably accommodates my large 6ft frame!
It would be a pleasure to answer any further questions you might have. This Lotus can be inspected at my Guildford showroom - please call me on the details below.
