Lot 017: 1971 LOTUS ELAN S4 DROPHEAD COUPE

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. One of the most desirable Elan derivatives, the S4 arrived in March 1968. Characterised by its wider wheelarches, revised interior and brake servo, the model was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 7.8 seconds and 122mph. Only in production for six years, the S4 remains keenly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Finished in yellow with black vinyl upholstery, this particular example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (electrical equipment, interior trim) or "very good" (1558cc engine, four-speed manual gearbox, bodywork, paintwork, wheels / tyres) condition. Apparently "off the road for twenty years", 'JWY 611J' is said to have been subsequently treated to an extensive restoration including "a replacement Lotus galvanised chassis, reconditioned engine / gearbox, repaint, new hood and stainless steel exhaust". Believed but not warranted to have covered just 79,600 miles from new, it rides on alloy wheels. Well presented, this delectable Elan is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until April 9th 2007 and historic class (free) road tax until March 31st 2007.