Description
The Millbrook Sale | Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire
Viewing: Saturday 9th May 2026 from 12pm
Auction: Sunday 10th May 2026
Location: Millbrook Proving Ground, Station Lane, Bedford MK45 2JH
1962 Lotus Elite Series 2 SE
Same ownership for 57 years
Estimate
£35, 000 - £45, 000
Registration No: FWC 393
Chassis No: 10659
MOT: Exempt
A rarer, more desirable 'Special Equipment' example
Purchased by the current vendor in 1969 and fully restored between 2011 and 2013
Finished in Primrose Yellow with the traditional Series 2 silver roof over a Black leather interior
Fitted with a bespoke overdrive
Offered for sale with an extremely impressive history file and current Swansea V5C
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 1, 508lb. kerb weight). Perhaps influenced by the FIA's recently introduced 1, 300cc GT racing class, the newcomer's specification included Formula Two-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 a four-speed manual transmission, the basic variant claimed a top speed of over 120mph.
The work of Peter Kirwin-Taylor, aerodynamicist Frank Costin and John Frayling, the Coupé's sleek silhouette is still considered a masterpiece. Unsurprisingly, given its radical design (and Chapman's budget constraints), the first running prototype did not emerge until May 10th, 1958. Driven straight to Silverstone by Ian Walker, it promptly won a production sports car race against 1, 600cc opposition. As successful abroad as on British circuits, the Elite won its class at Le Mans every year from 1959 to 1964. When the Series II appeared, it brought improvements to the rear suspension and the interior, as well as the option of higher-performance engines such as the twin-Weber Super 95 option, so named for its claimed 95bhp.
More information to follow
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
Catalogues can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people).
