This fully restored 1966 Lotus Elan SE has just received an extensive overhaul by renowned Lotus experts and is ready to be enjoyed by its next keeper.
 
With its rigid steel backbone and lightweight design, the Lotus Elan typified Colin Chapmans engineering obsession and remained the basis for every Lotus model that followed over the next three decades.
 
Intended as a more affordable replacement to the outgoing Elite, the Elan quickly proved itself as one of the most respected and rewarding sports cars of the 1960’s. So much so that when F1 design guru, Professor Gordon Murray was asked the question, ‘which car and which road?’, he did not hesitate in answering, ‘Lotus Elan in the Sottish Highlands.’ In fact, Murrays only criticism of his McLaren F1, was that he was not able to recreate the feel and feedback of the Elans steering for his own masterpiece.
 
According to the extensive records which include the original Lotus factory orders and invoices, this late Series 2 Elan SE DHC (chassis 26/5326) was purchased by and registered to Dr Bates of Hertfordshire on 24th January 1966.
 
Specified with the additional and desirable ‘Special Equipment’ options, records are also on file from Racing Engines Ltd. which provide details of the original Lotus twin-cam unit which remains with the car today. This information is confirmed by the accompanying letter and copy of the Classic Lotus Provenance Certificate from the factory archives.
 
The huge history file shows that Dr Bates owned the Elan for nearly thirty years before selling the car to its second keeper, on 24th June 1995. Throughout this time, a complete record of all invoices and extensive service work completed were retained together with the original logbook, Lotus Elan Test Certificate, service books and all factory correspondence from the point of order.
 
This very late example of the Series 2 Elan was delivered just four months before the introduction of the Type 45 Series 3 and as such, features the more simple and desirable body design without the later chrome side window surrounds and fixed hood assembly.
 
MOT records show that the Elan had covered a total of just 28,228 miles in 1997 and although it cannot be verified, we believe the current recorded mileage of 40,109 miles to be genuine. Records are also on file which evidence at least two complete restorations including the fitment of a new galvanised chassis as well as a total engine rebuild. In addition to the vast collection of invoices and history from both the factory and respected Lotus specialists, this Elan SE has just received a complete overhaul by respected Lotus expert Max Hurst of Max 500 Ltd, Guildford.
 
UK registration number: NRO 740D