Lotus Elan +2

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 Lotus launched a legend in 1962, the Lotus Elan. Following on from the previous Elite model, the new Elan offered improved handling and performance and had a less fragile feel to its overall design. 

Initially the Elan came as an open two-seater but from 1964 a fixed-head coupe was also available, and in 1967 a new Elan +2 joined the range which offered more comfort in a classic GT format. Light, powerful and with sensational handling, it proved an immense commercial success for Lotus, slightly fewer than 9,000 being produced by the time production ceased in 1973, of which around half were 2+2 models.

First registered on 22^nd January 1968 the Elan +2 offered here appears to have covered 97,000 miles from new, and there are 9 old MOTs on file. According to the DVLA it has a virtually continuous MOT history back to 2007 where it had covered 94,500 miles, and an MOT on file shows 92,000 miles in 2004 so that would appear to make sense..

There are invoices on file showing that in 2003 it received a replacement chassis from Spyder, along with a Zetec engine upgrade with twin carbs.  It appears that the interior was also upgraded at about that time to a more luxurious cream leather which is in nice condition.  With 10 registered keeps over its lifetime it was purchased by a prominent surgeon in 2012 to add to a small collection of cars although he drove it sparingly, only adding 400 miles over 6 years.

Offered in running condition it drove well on the day of our visit and would make a good “use and improve” candidate. The paint and body, although good from 20 paces, could do with some attention, but that’s not going to affect the driving experience! Offered here at a realistic estimate it should prove an enjoyable rewarding exercise.