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Lotus Elite Series II – Car Profile

Lotus Elite Series II For Sale1960 Lotus Elite Series II For Sale

Details: 1200cc inline Coventry Climax 4 cylinder with twin Weber 40 DCOE; close ratio ZF 4-speed; White with Blue Stripe and grey interior; Seller Fantasy Junction is asking $85,000

Market: The 2008 May – August Cars That Matter Price Guide advocates a $37,200 – $63,700 range.

Seller Comments: “This particular example is a superbly restored race-prepared example.  The restoration was done in 1993-1994 and was extremely comprehensive.  The engine, driveline, chassis, body, interior, and electrical system were restored in a no-expense spared fashion, and the car has had four race weekends and 2000 miles since the restoration. 

Cosmetically, this car is very nice, above and below.  The paint shows some chipping from use but is on the whole presentable and attractive.  The blue stripes are painted on and the chrome trim and wheels are excellent.  The side screens are in good shape, as is the glass, though the bottom right corner of the windscreen is starting to delaminate.

The interior is fully trimmed to high standards and remains in excellent condition.  The carpets were well done, as was the seat upholstery.  The dashboard and instruments are sparkling, and there is a VDO auxiliary fuel level gauge installed to supplement the Smiths item.

The engine compartment is extremely clean as well, having seen little use since the comprehensive restoration.  The proper overflow catching equipment is place for competition use.   The underside is very tidy as well, with all major components having been replaced or refinished and little mileage covered since. 

This is a wonderful opportunity to acquire an excellent example of this sophisticated and charming car.  The ZF transmission and Weber carburetors are desirable features that enhance the car`s performance, while the specification is such that the car could be enjoyed in street events or on track by its new owner.”

SCD Comments: The Elite’s most distinctive feature was its highly innovative fiberglass monocoque construction, in which a stressed-skin unibody replaced the previously separate chassis and body components. The Elite also used this material for the entire load-bearing structure of the car, though the front of the monocoque incorporated a steel sub frame supporting the engine and front suspension. The resulting construction totaled only 1,300 pounds, yet with very strong torsional rigidity, ultimately helping the Elite to win their class six times at Le Mans.

Lotus Elite Photos:

Lotus Elite Series II Front

Lotus Elite Series II Interior

Lotus Elite Series II Interior

Lotus Elite Series II Engine

Lotus Elite Series II Detail

Lotus Elite Series II Side Profile

[Source: Fantasy Junction]