Description
1977 LOTUS ECLAT - 110, 459 MILES INDICATED - BARN STOREDA highly original and increasingly rare 1977 Lotus Éclat, in striking Colorado Orange, barn stored for many years and remarkably having been off the road for approximately 24 years. Despite its prolonged period of inactivity, this example remains running and driving, with the brakes operational. The odometer currently displays 110, 459 miles, although the mileage is not verified and should therefore be regarded as indicated only. With only around 1, 500 examples produced and fewer than 700 believed to remain, the Éclat is now an increasingly scarce Lotus. Its combination of lightweight construction, distinctive styling and genuine four-seat practicality has earned it a growing following amongst Lotus enthusiasts and collectors. This particular example is notable for its extremely original condition. Barn stored for many years, it has avoided the extensive modification and restoration seen on many surviving cars. The bodywork is described as very straight and solid, while the underside is also notably sound — an especially encouraging feature for a car of this age. The Éclat’s distinctive wedge-shaped styling is quintessentially 1970s Lotus, with its low stance, sharp lines and characteristic pop-up headlights. The headlights are one of the car’s most recognisable features, contributing to the clean, purposeful appearance that made the Éclat such a distinctive design when new. Presented in Lotus Orange, the car has an attractive and suitably period appearance, although it is the vehicle’s originality, condition and rarity that are its principal attractions. Despite approximately 24 years off the road, the car is running and driving, with the brakes operational. A thorough mechanical inspection and recommissioning programme will naturally be required before regular road use following such a prolonged period of storage. The car is fitted with a stainless-steel exhaust, while the V5 registration document is present, adding to its appeal as a complete and straightforward restoration proposition. Highlights• 1977 Lotus Éclat• Approximately 1, 500 produced• Fewer than 700 believed to remain• 110, 459 miles indicated — not verified • Genuine barn-stored example • Approximately 24 years off the road • Running and driving • Brakes operational • Very straight and solid • Solid underneath • Extremely original • Distinctive pop-up headlights • Lotus Colorado Orange coachwork • Stainless-steel exhaust • V5 present • Iconic 1970s wedge styling • Increasingly rare Lotus grand tourerA wonderfully evocative Lotus survivor, combining genuine rarity with the romance of a long-term barn find. Its remarkably original condition, solid structure, distinctive styling and low surviving numbers make this a particularly interesting recommissioning opportunity. With fewer than 700 believed to survive, the Éclat is becoming increasingly difficult to find. An honest and characterful Lotus with enormous potential to become a very special car once sympathetically returned to the road.This vehicle is located near Chesterfield, Derbyshire S43 from where it will need to be collected. AA report and videos available on request. Viewing is by appointment, please contact the office to arrange.
