Description
1971 Lotus Europa S2 project offered from a long-term family collection. This car was acquired by our family following an extensive earlier restoration, with the intention of completing the project and returning the car to the road. Due to other commitments, it is now being offered for sale. The car is supplied with a substantial restoration dossier containing numerous photographs and detailed written records documenting a restoration project that reportedly involved approximately 1, 200 hours of work. The file records a significant restoration undertaken during the early 2000s and provides a fascinating insight into the work carried out. According to the restoration records, the original rear body section was replaced using a second Europa body section to create the preferred twin-cam style rear treatment. The chassis, engine, gearbox and mechanical components were comprehensively refurbished during this period. After acquiring the car, our intention was to complete the final stages of the project. To that end, attention focused on resolving the remaining bodywork issues. The body was subsequently entrusted to a specialist composite engineer involved in the construction of high-end Porsche racing car recreations. The shell was professionally repaired and refinished, leaving it straight, crack-free and prepared for primer and paint. The chassis appears to be in very good condition and presents well. Suspension, steering and mechanical components remain installed, and the car sits correctly on its wheels. The restoration file documents extensive engine work including:* Renault 16 TS crossflow engine enlarged to approximately 1605cc* Reprofiled performance camshaft* Larger valves and modified cylinder head* High-compression pistons* Twin Weber carburettors* Stainless steel exhaust manifold and exhaust system* Upgraded oiling system incorporating an Accusump oil accumulator* Selected images from the restoration dossier included within the advert* Complete restoration dossier available to genuinely interested parties upon requestThe objective of the engine build was reportedly to achieve approximately 120–130bhp, significantly above standard Europa S2 output. The interior is largely complete and includes seats, dashboard, instruments, switchgear and trim. Numerous parts removed during restoration are included with the sale and the car is believed to be substantially complete. The vehicle has been stored for some time and will require recommissioning and completion before returning to the road. Buyers should assume that all systems will require inspection and checking prior to use. An unusual and well-documented Lotus Europa project with extensive restoration work already completed, supported by a detailed restoration file, photographic records and significant specialist investment. What attracted us to this particular car was the quality of the restoration work already undertaken. The bodywork has benefited from considerable specialist attention and the extensive restoration dossier demonstrates the level of thought and engineering that went into the project. Unlike many Europa projects, this car comes with a documented performance engine build, twin Weber carburettors, upgraded oiling system and a fascinating restoration file detailing the work carried out over approximately 1, 200 hours. With the difficult body restoration work already completed and the car remaining substantially complete, this represents an opportunity to finish a very special Europa to your own specification. To the best of our knowledge, all major components are present and included within the sale, avoiding the need for the extensive parts sourcing often associated with long-term projects. Several photographs included within this advert show the car following completion of the earlier restoration when it was finished in blue and in roadworthy condition. These images are included to illustrate the quality and extent of the restoration work documented within the accompanying file. The remaining photographs show the car in its current condition. For a Lotus enthusiast, it offers the chance to acquire a lightweight, analogue sports car project with an excellent foundation, extensive documentation and enormous potential.
