1972 Lotus Elan

The Lotus Elan was introduced in 1962 and would go on to become one of the most successful sports cars both on the road and racetrack. It was the first Lotus road car to use a steel backbone chassis with fibreglass bodywork embodying Colin Chapman’s minimum weight design philosophy. Powered by a 1558 cc twin cam four-cylinder engine the Elan adopted several other Lotus road car firsts including four wheel disc brakes, rack and pinion steering and four wheel independent suspension.

The Lotus Elan Sprint debuted at the 1970 Earls Court Motor Show and went on to become the most desirable of early Elans. The engine power was increased to 126bhp, this propelled the car from 0-60mph in just 6.6 secs and onto a top speed of 123mph.

The Lotus Elan Sprint DHC offered here at Autostorico is a 1972 registered example finished in Lagoon Blue metallic over Cirrus White with Black interior. Remaining with its original owner until 1996, it was purchased by a Lotus enthusiast, who undertook a comprehensive restoration. This included removing the engine, gearbox and stripping the body back to the gel coat ready for a respray. The car was also subject to a full mechanical overhaul including a complete engine rebuild. Other notable works included brake overhaul, new hoses, suspension bushes and joints replaced along with shock absorbers, stainless steel exhaust system and new hood fitted.

Offered for sale with a current V5 registration document, a history file including numerous invoices and other related material.