Lot 112: Lotus Elan S3 DHC

The original Elan was introduced in 1962 as a roadster, although an optional hardtop was offered in 1963 and a coup� version in 1965. It was the first Lotus road car to use the now famous steel backbone chassis with a fibreglass body. At 1500 lb. (680 kg), the Elan embodied the Colin Chapman minimum weight design philosophy.The Elan was technically advanced with its twin-cam 1558 cc engine, 4-wheel disc brakes, all round 4, independent suspension. The Lotus-Ford Twin Cam was based on Ford's Kent engine, with a Lotus-inspired Cosworth alloy twin-cam head. This Lotus-Ford 4-cylinder engine would go on to be used in a number of Lotus production and racing models. The final incarnation of the original Elan was the S4 with production ending in 1973. This Elan Drophead Coupe is said to have been restored, in stages, over a 14 year period, by its fourth owner. The original owner is said to have replaced or rebuilt the 1558cc Twin-Cam engine and subsequent owners have refurbished or replaced brake discs, suspension, track rod ends, ball joints, drive shaft couplings, timing chain, hood, windscreen, hood, etc. The car is said to have been little used in the recent past but has recently benefited from an engine service, new fuel pump, new battery, new spare wheel and tyre. It will have been noted that the date of registration is separated from the date of construction by some 7 years. The vendor suggests that the car may have been used in competition from new. This theory is supported by the tub being modified to accept a wider rear track and the fitment of a racing style fuel tank. Described as being in good condition, the car is finished in green with black leather interior. This Elan is only being sold due to redundancy of the vendor and resultant loss of suitable storage.