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2006 Melbourne International Motor Show Auction
Lot
31

1974 Lotus Super 7 Clubman

$23,500

Sold

Specifications

Engine In-line 4-cylinder, 1600cc
Gearbox 4-speed manual
Body Work Roadster
Colour Green

Description

This lot is no longer available

The Lotus Seven concept of building a pure sports car offering the most undiluted driving experience possible has proven immensely popular over the years and the spirit lives on in the numerous Clubmans being made today.

From the earliest model of 1957, powered by a side-valve Ford engine with three-speed gearbox through various BMC A-series and Ford Twin-Cam variants, the Seven has always been about mechanical simplicity. With a multi-tubular space-frame chassis and stressed aluminium bodywork, the Seven was distinctly spartan in appearance and the interior was no different - the emphasis was very much on functionality. Suspension was via coil springs at the front and a live axle at the rear with radius arms and coil spring/damper units generating impressive cornering abilities.

Sold in kit form to avoid taxes and thus keep the price down, the Seven was primarily aimed at the owner who wanted something to race in club events on weekends but also be driven on the road and has become the most famous Clubman of all. In 1973 Lotus sold the rights to build the Seven to Caterham Cars, who continue to manufacture versions of the car to the present day. With minimal bodywork, shattering performance and kart-like handling the Lotus Seven is the perfect track day weapon.