Description
We are delighted to bring this extraordinary example of the Lotus Elite Type 14, Series 2 to market, out of a truly long-term family ownership. Having been enjoyed over its lifetime, the car can be described as used and loved with possibly the ultimate patina acquired over those years.
LOTUS ELITE Series 2 SE 1962
Lotus Elite chassis number 1733 is a wonderful example of one of Colin Chapman’s greatest achievements. As an original Series 2 it comes with twin SU carbs, a ZF all synchromesh gearbox, its original FWE1216cc Coventry Climax engine giving circa 85bhp and a long range (10. 5 gal) fuel tank.
This particular car was supplied to a Charles Warran in kit form and first registered by him in April 1962. The car changed hands a couple of times before it was bought in 1969 by an ex-Lotus employee, and has stayed in his family ever since. When he bought the car, it was mauve with a silver roof and was starting to look a little tired, so in the early 1970's he set about refurbishing it with immense enthusiasm - a full engine rebuild, a full respray and new brakes and rear suspension were just some of the jobs that were undertaken.
Over the next 16 years his enthusiasm for the car never diminished, and although it was always a second car, it received constant attention. On his untimely demise at age just 47, the car passed to the family, and his brother became its sole owner in 1985. However, since the current owner took over its stewardship the upkeep has been no less fastidious, as is evidenced by the thick file of receipts for work done.
Some of the work completed, which is too numerous to list in its entirety, includes;
Miles Wilkins worked on the suspension and brakes.
Services and screen replacement by Tony Bates.
A more recent full engine rebuild by Mike Brotherwood, where it should be noted that the head has been repaired around cylinder 2 & 3 and appears sound.
Tolman Motorsport general service with uprated rear suspension with rose jointed rear wishbones.
New tyres, wheels, starter motor, s/ s exhaust - the list goes on for quite some time.
MK14 Components & AS Heritage were recently engaged to complete a full mechanical inspection, overhaul and service resulting in new bushes, bearings, fuel lines, replacement (but with an original) long range fuel tank, new wiring loom and finally new front dampers which ensures the car is not only safe, but also up to date with all its mechanical and electrical running gear.
Until now, the current owner has been loathed to part with the car that was once his brother’s pride and joy, but as with most things, age catches up with us all and it is sadly time to let the car go and we are delighted to have been chosen to bring the car to the market, having intimate knowledge of its history and recent work.
The car has a wonderful look about it – the red paintwork, still dating from the late ‘60’s has worn well, although at over 60 years old does show the odd blemish and scratch as should be expected. The interior has the perfect patina and is just a wonderfully comfortable place to be, while the mechanics have all been updated to the highest standards ensuring safety and reliability accompanies the car. The car does come with our 120 point inspection report upon request for serious enquiries.
This is a genuinely honest Elite that has been loved all its life – not cosmetically over pampered, but mechanically as good as it gets and deserves to be driven and enjoyed by its next custodian.
As the accompanying pictures cannot do this rather special car justice, viewings are welcome by appointment at our workshop and for those farther afield, live video calls are available to see the car as first hand as possible.
Delivery in the UK can be arranged at preferential rates and International shipping is also possible, please enquire via the contact details, or give us a call.
