Introduced in 1962, the Lotus Elan Series 1 quickly became one of the most influential British sports cars ever produced. Revered for its lightweight construction, delicate styling and benchmark chassis balance, the early Series 1 cars are widely regarded as the purest expression of Colin Chapman’s philosophy of performance through simplicity. Offered here is an exceptionally well documented and beautifully restored early example, registration 5711 DH.

Believed to be approximately the 390th Elan manufactured by Lotus and built to domestic market specification around July 1964, this car is supported by accompanying Lotus Archives historian notes and carries body number 3443 and unit number 3798, making it a particularly early and historically significant example.

Its provenance is exceptional. The first owner was Gerry Ashmore, period Lotus Formula One driver, who purchased the car new on 6 August 1964 before registering it on 21 August 1964. Ashmore retained the Elan until 18 September 1965, with subsequent ownership history carefully documented thereafter. The original green registration document lists the car as black, supporting Gerry Ashmore’s own recollection that he repainted the car black during his ownership in period.

The Elan later spent many years resting in a barn in Fort William from 1983 until eventually being acquired for restoration. Delivered to the former owner on 4 October 2019, the car then underwent a comprehensive and sympathetic rebuild with an emphasis on retaining as many original components and features as possible. Following extensive body preparation, the car was refinished in the official Lotus colour British Racing Green (LO1). The restoration was completed in February 2022.

The accompanying history and research file is particularly impressive, documenting the chronology, production numbering and ownership story in excellent detail. Notable features include the unusual period bucket-style driver’s seat associated with Gerry Ashmore, alongside numerous carefully preserved early-production characteristics that reinforce the authenticity and charm of this very early Series 1 example.

Early Series 1 Elans are widely considered the purest driving examples of the model range, offering lightweight performance, delicate steering and exceptional balance that still feels remarkably modern today. Combining genuine period Lotus competition provenance, desirable early-production status and a recent high-quality restoration, 5711 DH represents an increasingly rare opportunity to acquire one of the most collectible and usable early Elans available.

UK registered as 5711 DH with comprehensive history file and supporting paperwork.

Supplied at the asking price with a full major service, MOT and health check.

Why not book a viewing? Our coffee pot is always hot.

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