Coys Auction
Ascot Racecourse,
Berkshire SL5 7JX
Saturday 2 October 2010 at 3pm
Launched at the 1962 London Motor Show, at the Elan’s heart was a rigid backbone chassis so good that it has formed the basis of all Lotus models since. Independent suspension under a light and outstandingly pretty GRP body ensured nimble handling with racing car feel and responses, while soft springing also provided an excellent ride - a combination allowing the Elan numerous track successes in little modified form; brakes were disc all round with centre-lock wheels. The engine, initially 1,498cc but soon increased to 1,558cc, was a four cylinder twin-cam unit; through twin Weber either 40DCOE or twin Delortto carburettors, it produced 105bhp at 5,500rpm and, via a close ratio gearbox, powered the diminutive Elan to 112mph and 0-60mph in 9 seconds.
From November 1964 the S2 Elan appeared with larger front brake callipers, revised rear lights and full width wood fascia, while the fixed-head S3 followed in O