"For UK-based buyers, a highly competitive fixed-rate shipping quote has been secured for: £1,500 via Freight Factory for all cars sold by this seller on auction.
Global shipping options also available, contact henry@freightfactory.co.za for estimated shipping quotes"
Global shipping options also available, contact henry@freightfactory.co.za for estimated shipping quotes"
Highlights
- Owned by the same individual for 47 years
- original chassis fully galvanised, ensuring it remains numbers matching
- Engine recently overhauled with high compression Cosworth pistons
- Rare "Special Equipment" S4 version with additional creature comforts
- Original and unmodified with rare knock-on disc wheels
The Appeal
The Lotus Elan is widely regarded as one of the most influential small roadster designs of all time, embodying Colin Chapman's philosophy of "simplify, and then add lightness." This 1970 Lotus Elan SE S4 1600cc DHC is a rare factory-built example in right-hand drive, representing the pinnacle of the model's development.
What makes this example truly special is its remarkable provenance and originality, having been cherished by a single dedicated Lotus enthusiast for nearly five decades.
Unlike many British sports cars of this era that have required replacement chassis, this Elan retains its original chassis, galvanised for future preservation. It's also fully matching numbers, making it an increasingly rare find for the discerning collector.
What makes this example truly special is its remarkable provenance and originality, having been cherished by a single dedicated Lotus enthusiast for nearly five decades.
Unlike many British sports cars of this era that have required replacement chassis, this Elan retains its original chassis, galvanised for future preservation. It's also fully matching numbers, making it an increasingly rare find for the discerning collector.
History and Paperwork
- First registered in 1970
- Single owner for 47 years - Mr K. Clack, described as a true custodian of the Lotus brand
- Part of a carefully curated private collection in Central South Africa
- Stored in a custom-built, dry facility away from coastal air
- 37,940 miles indicated
- International shipping options available on a turnkey, door-to-door, forwarding service via Freight Factory, pre-negotiated rates of GBP1500.00 for shipping from the port of Cape Town, South Africa, to Felixstowe, United Kingdom
The Condition
- Original and unrestored specimen with careful, mature use throughout its life
- Fibreglass bodywork appears in smart condition for its age
- Soft top is in very good order and operates easily
- Original seats, dashboard top, console and wood grain veneers all present well
- Rare knock-on disc wheels present and in good condition
- Special Equipment (SE) version with additional creature comforts
- Stored in an arid environment, away from damaging coastal air
The Mechanics
- 1.6-litre Ford/Lotus twin-cam
- Four-speed manual transmission
- Recently received a full engine overhaul
- Engine has been blueprinted for precision
- Fitted with brand-new high compression Cosworth pistons
- The vendor states the car is not only nimble but also very quick
- Original chassis has been fully galvanised for longevity
- Numbers matching specimen throughout
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