Description
Unveiled at the 1957 London Motor Show, the Elite (Type 14) was not only Colin Chapman's first production road car but also the world's first fibreglass monocoque (a contributory factor to its reputed 684kg kerb weight). Perhaps influenced by the FIA's recently introduced 1300cc GT racing class, the newcomer's specification included F2-derived all-round independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes (inboard at the rear). Powered by a Coventry-Climax SOHC four-cylinder engine mated to four-speed manual transmission, its amazing 0. 29 cd allowed all but the basic variant to claim a top speed of over 120mph.
This Series 2 example, Chassis 1365, was supplied new to a Mr F. A. Hastings in February 1962 and has since passed though six subsequent owners to date. The car was restored in the early 1990’s and the engine rebuilt in 2011, since then 1365 has been used very sparingly.
The Elite comes complete with many spare parts, and a very comprehensive history file full of original paperwork.
