1961 Lotus Elite Type 14

£ 61 500

A 1961 Lotus Elite Type 14 – Usable and Ready to Go.

A mechanically sorted, well-documented Elite Type 14 with strong usability, recent upgrades, and the original engine included. This is a car to drive and enjoy.

Well-Documented History and Enthusiast Ownership

First registered in May 1961, chassis EB1703 was delivered to Ray Cutler of Cutlers of Streetly Ltd. With strong trade and motorsport links, it’s likely the car saw club use early on. Supporting documents include the original Lotus invoice and warranty card, anchoring the car’s provenance.

By the 1990s, EB1703 had entered the hands of collector David Bridges, who commissioned engine work and light restoration. In 2002, it was acquired by the late Duncan McGregor—well known for his eclectic and discerning collection. He took the car to Elite specialists Mike Brotherwood and Fibreglass Services, commissioning upgrades that transformed it into a true driver’s car.

Mechanical Upgrades by Respected Elite Specialists.

Under McGregor’s ownership, EB1703 was treated to a carefully considered series of mechanical upgrades. A close-ratio gearbox, improved suspension setup, and brake overhaul were all completed by trusted specialists with Elite expertise. The intention was clear: to make the car more usable and enjoyable, without losing its character.

lotus elite steering wheel

1460cc FWB Engine Installed, Original Included

In 2023, with the original 1216cc engine beginning to show its age, a 1460cc Coventry Climax FWB was sourced and installed. Built by a retired race engineer for his own Elite, it runs twin SUs and is well matched to the car’s road-focused setup. The original engine is retained and included in the sa

A Well-Prepared Elite, Ready to Be Enjoyed

Recent maintenance includes new adjustable front dampers, fresh springs, a fully flowed exhaust manifold, stainless silencers, and new wire wheels with Michelin XAS FF tyres. The suspension has been re-bushed, and the car drives with clarity and poise, delivering exactly the sort of experience Lotus promised in period.

WSJ 132 is not a showpiece—it’s a well-sorted car for the kind of enthusiast who values usability and mechanical quality over concours finishes. The Elite’s lightness, communication, and road manners remain key to its appeal, and this example has been refined with that in mind. With original paperwork, decades of history, and the original engine included, this is a complete package ready to be enjoyed.

Get in touch to arrange a viewing or discuss the car in more detail.