Lot 019: 1973 LOTUS ELAN +2 S130 COUPE

Designed 'to carry two adults and two children on a long holiday in comfort', the Elan +2 was introduced in 1967. Based on a suitably lengthened and widened version of its smaller sibling's backbone chassis, it boasted both better aerodynamics (with a claimed drag co-efficient of just 0.30) and superior grip (a corollary of its six-inch plus wider track and fatter tyres). Considered by many to be the ultimate variant, the 130/5 was unveiled in October 1972. Powered by a 'Big Valve' version of the Lotus twin-cam engine mated to a new five-speed manual gearbox, it was reputedly capable of 121mph and 0-60mph in 7.4 seconds. Finished in white with oatmeal upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being "excellent throughout". Said to have had a replacement chassis, we also understand it to have benefited from a "recent major refurbishment in last 1,000 miles in excess of ú4,500 spent". Offered for sale with history file, the current owner believes that the present recorded mileage of 88,000 may well represent the total covered from new.