Highlights
- A fascinating barnfind
- Registration ‘FUR 4G’ included
- Engine said to turn, full restoration required
- Very rare convertible +2
- V5 and paperwork present
The Appeal
You might be surprised to know that the designer of the ultimate item of utilitarian usefulness — the Black & Decker Workmate — was also responsible for the sweeping curves of the Lotus Elan. The Elan +2 was released later in 1967, offering two small rear seats and a well-appointed cabin. The track and wheelbase were both lengthened to allow for this luxurious interior. It was designed to be ‘capable of transporting two adults and two children 1,000 miles in comfort with their luggage’.
The car offered for sale here is a rare convertible version of the +2, which has spent a long time out of use, parked up in a barn, so now it offers the tempting opportunity to bring it back to a useable state. We’re told that the engine turns over, but it hasn’t been started. It will need a thorough mechanical check over to determine the best course of action.
A squirrel is said to have taken up residence in the driver’s seat, so the original grey interior will need to be revived, but once the car is ready to be used, we can only imagine what it’s like to be staring out past the walnut dashboard, and over the slopping bonnet. This will certainly be a rewarding project, and one which deserves to be completed.
The car will come with its distinctive original registration number FUR 4G.
The History and Paperwork
- First registered on 12th August 1968
- Odometer reads 7,535 miles we are unsure if this is correct
- Numerous bills invoices and MOT's up until car was stored in barn 33 years ago
- Original bill of sale from Christopher Neil when car was converted to a soft top
- The valuable registration number FUR 4G is said to be original to the car and will remain with the car upon sale
- This car is on the government system and V5 present with the vehicle
- Road Tax and MOT exempt
- Since being advertised it has come to light that the original owner may have been a famous rock star - back then it was green with custom red flame paintwork.
- The second owner who had the car from 1973 to 1976 has come forward and is happy for his contact details to be given to the lucky new owner of the car.
The Interior
- Well appointed interior, with light grey upholstery
- A full array of gauges keep the driver informed of the vehicle’s condition
- Acres of burr walnut veneer swathe the dashboard
- The lacquer on the veneer is showing its age
- Wooden-rimmed steering wheel in great condition
- The upholstery is in generally grubby condition
- Both door cards are missing
- The driver’s seat has reportedly been the subject of considerable attention from a squirrel
- Rear seats suitable for use by children
The Exterior
- Finished in metallic grey paint
- Believed to have been resprayed from blue at some point
- Chassis said to be in solid condition, upon initial inspection
- Fibreglass body panels
- The soft top is said to be in good condition and retains its original Christopher Neil sticker
- Tonneau and soft top cover present
- Chrome bumpers and other trim showing some pitting
- Glass all appears to be present and correct
- Rubber seals have begun to show signs of cracking
- Michelin MXV tyres all round, reportedly still with good tread
The Mechanics
- 1588cc Lotus twin cam engine
- Engine was fully rebuilt and tuned with balanced crank etc just 100 miles prior to car being parked up in the barn and has done no mileage since.
- Twin side-draught Webber carburettors
- Engine said to turn over
- Stainless steel exhaust fitted
- All-synchromesh gearbox
- The car will clearly need a thorough inspection and restoration service
NOTE: Vehicle will require collection by trailer or transporter.
Summary
We’re sure there will be plenty of people who are tempted to get stuck into the revival of this fascinating Lotus. It will be an interesting project and a very rewarding one, once complete.
Clearly there will be a lot of work involved, but the finished result will be a beautiful motorcar with its spritely twin-cam engine giving good performance.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
