LOT 102
1967 Lotus Elan Coupe Series 3 Chassis no. 36/6180
Sold for US$17,920 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 102
1967 Lotus Elan Coupe Series 3
1967 Lotus Elan Coupe Series 3
Chassis no. 36/6180
Chassis no. 36/6180
1,558cc DOHC Inline 4-Cylinder Engine
2 Weber DCOE Carburetors
125bhp at 5,500rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Disc Brakes
*In the care of the present owner for nearly four decades
*Right drive, home-market specification
*Updated with SE-spec valves and cams
*One of history's greatest driver's cars
*Reportedly updated with an improved 'Spyder' chassis
*Honest and charming patina inviting regular use
*Great for rallies, tours, and backroad carving
*Enjoy as-is, or freshen as desired
THE LOTUS ELAN S3
Launched in October 1962, the Lotus Elan was available as a complete car or a self-assembled kit at reduced price. Suspension was all independent with unequal-length wishbones at the front, while a wide-based lower wishbone and modified Chapman Strut, as used in Lotus Grand Prix cars, was employed at the rear. Rack-and-pinion steering was sourced from the Triumph Vitesse, and there were Girling disc brakes all round. The Elan's engine was a highly modified 1,498cc (later 1,558cc) Ford Cortina unit incorporating Lotus's own twin-camshaft cylinder head, and both the gearbox and differential came also from Ford. With the introduction of the improved S3 model in September 1965, the Elan became available as a fixed-head coupé for the first time, having previously been sold only in drophead form with optional separate hardtop. Other civilizing improvements included electric windows, re-designed dashboard and better trim. Powerful, light in weight and endowed with exceptional roadholding and handling, the Elan proved an immense commercial success for Lotus, slightly fewer than 9,000 being produced by the time production ceased in 1973.
THE CAR OFFERED
This 1967 Elan Coupe is a charming and honest example, being offered from nearly 40 years of enthusiastic single ownership. The consignor acquired this car from the legendary UK dealer and marque champion, Paul Matty Sports Cars, which has since become part of Clive Chapman's Classic Team Lotus. The consignor, a passionate driving enthusiast with many years of experience in rallies and driving events, loved to grab the keys to his Elan at any opportunity and he has enjoyed it to the fullest for nearly four decades. According to the seller, this car has been updated with an improved chassis by Spyder Limited of Peterborough, UK. Since the mid-1970s, Spyder Ltd supplied replacement chassis for Lotus owners, with vastly improved rigidity and durability. The combination of the improved chassis and fixed-roof coupe body undoubtedly sharpen the already superb handling Elan.
Additionally, the seller reports the engine was rebuilt by a specialist shortly after his acquisition, and the head was updated with SE cams and big valves, boosting output to approximately 125bhp. Finished in red over a black cabin, this example displays an honest, well-earned patina. Cracking is noted in the paint, however, it is still quite presentable as a driver-quality car. The cabin features correct black vinyl upholstery on the thin bucket seats and the center console was recently replaced with a reproduction part. The seats, headlining, and carpet are in tidy order. The fascia houses proper Smiths instruments, and delamination of the wood panel is noted. Following a period of storage, this Elan may require some light recommissioning before embarking on spirited drives. Once dialed-in, it will undoubtedly provide many more years of joyful, unfiltered driving pleasure as it has for the past 40 years in its current stewardship.
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