1968 Lotus Elan S3 'Super Safety' FHC

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 nimble rack and pinion steering gave agility and handling that was second-to-none.

This S3 Elan Fixed head coupe "Super Safety' example is finished in the BRM colours of metallic Polychromatic Green with Orange bumpers and a black vinyl interior. It was formerly owned by motoring journalist John Simister (of Evo & Octane fame) and has been continually developed/uprated at great expense over many years to produce the ultimate fast-road spec'd Elan.

Modifications include Spyder chassis, full Tony Thompson Racing 'fast road' brake/suspension/chassis upgrades including; H/D wishbones & polyurethane bushes, 26R-spec driveshafts & propshaft, steel billet rear hub shafts, uprated shock absorbers & springs. In addition, a Safety Devices FIA rear cage/sill bars/foot bars with 4-point harnesses has been fitted. The original engine has been uprated with forged pistons, larger valves, Cosworth L2 cams, full TTR exhaust system (inc manifold) and produces 135bhp whilst remaining perfectly tractable according to the vendor.

The cooling system features 26R-spec aluminium radiator & swirl pot plus front oil cooler. Finally, the body was treated to a full restoration & repaint in period BRM colours by renowned fibreglass specialists Option 1 in Bromsgrove. There are invoices on file for the above work totalling over £30,000.

Arguably the S3 FHC is the prettiest version of the Elan (featuring the more delicate rear lamps & 'round' wheel arches) and although over 45 years old, it is still one of the best handling cars available. A good history file accompanies the car with invoices for TTR upgrades & Option 1 bodywork restoration (a CD of photos is available), old MoT certificates and letters from previous owners. This little Elan offers a "turn-key' classic proposition that is likely to embarrass far more modern traffic on the roads today.