1990 Lotus Elan M100 – Project Profile

Lotus has continuously proven that us Brits can hang with the big boys when it comes to fast, agile sports cars. Pick any Lotus, including the likes of this Elan M100, and plonk it next to its equivalent Ferrari or Alfa Romeo for instance, and it’ll hold its own, confident in its inherent ability and innate drive-ability.

It’s all too easy to bang on about Chapman’s “simplify, then add lightness” ethos when talking about any Lotus but when it’s a principle that works so well it’s difficult to not at least mention it and the Elan M100 is as simple and as light as they come.

The original Elan badge dates back to the early sixties with the first incarnation being widely regarded as one of the best sports cars of the era, going on to influence a whole host of future models, including Mazda’s hugely popular and successful MX-5. Lasting until ’75 the nameplate would then be retired until ’89 when Lotus would bring it back with the M100 (with the help of some not insignificant funding from GM), this time with power controversially driving the front wheels rather than the rear.

But boy was it deserving of those four little letters! Incredibly capable and with handling to die for the M100 is an absolute joy to pilot, especially in turbocharged form. Many (idiots) derided the M100 for not being a ‘proper’ Lotus, no doubt due to it’s Isuzu-sourced engine and gearbox driving the front wheels, but those in the know who appreciate a spicy sportster have always fought the M100’s corner.

What is it? 

Our example, in need of restoration, is an early 1990 turbo model with just 27K on the clock. It does run but there are issues with the brakes and power steering so it will require a flat bed if you decide to take it on. The vendor acquired the car from a deceased estate and it’s been parked up for over six years.

The car is original and complete and while it is outwardly presentable it does require some work, both cosmetically and mechanically so prepare to break out the sparkly spanner, and the wallet.

Why is it a project? 

At first glance this M100 doesn’t look to be in too bad of a condition but dig a little deeper and you’ll realise that both sills will require replacement or repair, the bottoms of the front A-pillars need work and both front door hinge areas will require attention as the doors have dropped. It’s all do-able though.

Mechanically speaking there is a leak from the power steering pump and the brakes will need to be overhauled but the engine and gearbox appear to be in decent shape. Having sat for a while it will require a full service at the very least with perhaps a complete recommissioning of all fluids, seals, ancillaries and gaskets. We think it’s worth saving though as there doesn’t appear to be any major deal breakers here.

What should you look for? 

Rust
As we’ve just mentioned, there are areas of corrosion that need to be addressed and we’re not just talking a rub down and repaint here, you will have to get welding but none of it should be an issue for an accomplished fabricator.

The Calypso Red bodywork actually looks pretty decent and aside from a few blemishes it should come up with a full paint correction and detail but get in amongst it all and check for any additional corrosion leaking beneath the surface.

Engine
Being the turbocharged four-cylinder it’s the one to have but with forced induction comes greater potential for heartache so check the engine isn’t chucking out any smoke. Remember, if it’s blue, the turbo’s through. We may have just made up that little rhyme but it’s true. OK, we’re stopping now.

We know the power steering system is leaking which could indicate deteriorated pipes or failed joints due to the car’s age and inactivity so check everything perishable to see if anything else is on its way out.

Brakes
The car does move under its own power but the brakes need freeing up. It’s probably best to refresh the entire system, which may include rebuilding the calipers depending on their condition, but almost certainly fresh hoses, fluid, discs and pads will be required. It’s an easy job for a home mechanic though and not particularly expensive.

Steering and suspension
Aside from the power steering leak have a look to see what the overall condition of the system is as the Elan’s steering and handling is one of its strong points. Rear suspension lower wishbones weren’t galvanised on earlier models so check their condition as they may need replacing.

Interior
The two-tone leather interior would benefit from a pro valet, and some pieces of trim are loose but there’s no real damage to speak of and the roof is in good shape and operates as it should. Check all of the electrics work, especially those pop-up headlights. If they’re on the fritz it could be an issue with the control box mounted on the bulkhead, worn gears or simply a dodgy wire.

What should you do with it? 

This is a low mileage turbo with plenty going for it. Yes it needs a some welding and a bit of a mechanical overhaul but there’s nothing here that should scare you off. These cars have been flying under the radar for a while now but they’re imbued with many of those quintessential Lotus characteristics that make Chapman’s classics so much fun to drive.

So pick this up for a bargain, throw some cash at it to bring it back to its ’90s best and then go and have some fun. Every time you pass an MX-5 you’ll know exactly what the driver is thinking: that they maybe should have chosen a Lotus instead…