">
2010 Shannons Melbourne Autumn Classic Auction
Lot
51

1968 Lotus Elan S4 Convertible

$25,000

Sold

Specifications

Engine 4 cylinder, 1600cc
Gearbox Manual 4 speed
Body Work Convertible
Colour Yellow
Interior Black
Trim Vinyl
Wheels Cast Alloy
Brakes Discs

Description

This lot is no longer available

The Lotus Elan was introduced in 1962 in roadster form , the two seat Elan replaced the elegant Lotus Elite. Weighing just 680kg, the Elan embodied the Colin Chapman minimum weight design philosophy and now featured the now famous backbone chassis with a fibreglass body. Technologically advanced for its time the Elan featured a twin cam 1558cc engine, 4-wheel disc brakes, and 4-wheel independent suspension. The Lotus-Ford Twin Cam engine was based on Ford's Kent, with a Lotus-inspired Cosworth alloy twin-cam head. This Lotus-Ford 4-cylinder engine would go on to be used in a number of Lotus production and racing models. By the time Production ceased in 1973 an estimated total of 17,000 original Elans and +2 Elans were built. Because of its successful design and technological sophistication, the Elan went on to become Lotus' first commercial success, and enabling funding of the Lotus success in racing over the next ten years.