1966 Lotus Elan S3 Coupé

Subject to vast recent expenditure including engine rebuild and chassis replacement

Detailed restoration by marque specialist with invoices and correspondence kept on file

Original specification other than a few subtle upgrades to improve reliability

Previous keeper a Lotus Club member and clearly an enthusiast

The Lotus Elan burst onto the scene in 1962 as the first road-going Lotus to use the now synonymous combination of a steel backbone chassis coupled to a separate fibreglass body. Colin Chapman proudly announced in the launch literature that "We wanted to build you a fun car.."

A technologically advanced DOHC development of Ford's proven 'Kent' engine, bored out to 1558cc provided the propulsion, whilst cutting-edge features such as all-round disc brakes, fully independent suspension, and rack and pinion steering provided agility and handling that was second-to-none.

The Series 3 Fixed Head Coupé arrived in 1965 closely followed by the S3 soft top. In line with Lotus's intention to move upmarket and justify an increase in prices, fit and finish had been improved over the earlier Elans and the Coupé sported a considerably smarter dashboard. The new S3 further benefited from revised windows with frames to reduce cabin noise and of course, the windows were now electrically operated.

This superb Series 3 presents beautifully in Lotus Yellow and has clearly been very well maintained by its four former keepers. Subject to an extensive programme of improvements in the years 2014/15 this car benefited from what could only be described as a sympathetic restoration including the inevitable new chassis and a complete engine rebuild. Details of all this attention can be found in the extensive owner's file containing lots of invoices and vehicle history.

Quite rightly, the Lotus Elan is today regarded as one of the finest British sports cars of all time and the S3 coupé is arguably the most beautiful of all the early Elans. 'On the button' and ready for the next chapter in its life, this little Lotus has many more years of enjoyment to offer.