Lot 063: 1973 LOTUS ELAN SPRINT DHC

Brainchild of Lotus design and development engineer Ron Hickman, the Elan was introduced at the 1962 Earls Court Motor Show. Based around a steel backbone chassis (a.k.a. the 'Chapman Bracket') clad with lightweight glassfibre reinforced plastic bodywork, it boasted such niceties as all-round independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, pop-up headlights and integral bumpers. Powered by a 1600cc (initially 1500cc) 'twin-cam' four-cylinder engine mated to four-speed (later five-speed) manual transmission, the diminutive Lotus redefined its class in terms of ride, handling and performance. Arguably the ultimate Elan derivative, the Sprint arrived in February 1971. Characterised by its 'Big Valve' (126bhp / 113lbft) engine and bold colour schemes, the model was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 6.7 seconds and 121mph. Only in production until August 1973, the Sprint remains keenly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Finished in bronze over white with black leather upholstery, this particular drophead coupe example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its 1558cc engine, four-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, chassis, bodywork and wheels / tyres (while, he rates the interior trim as "excellent"). Manufactured in December 1972 (or so its chassis number would imply), 'RGC 10L' has reportedly been in the current ownership from new. Guaranteed to have covered just 28,763 miles, the Sprint is understood to have been "rarely used in the last five years". Said to be suffering from "deteriorating paintwork", it rides on black-painted wheels (complete with three-eared spinners). A rare opportunity to acquire a one-owner, low-mileage Sprint, 'RGC 10L' is not to be missed. PLEASE NOTE: This vehicle is fitted with a four-speed manual gearbox and not five-speed as stated in the catalogue.