1973 Lotus Elan 2+2 S 130/5 - Big Valve

The Lotus Elan was first introduced in 1962 as a roadster and then as a coupé version in 1965. The model was technically advanced with its twin-cam 1558cc engine, 4-wheel disc brakes, and 4-wheel independent suspension. It could reach 60mph in just 7.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 122mph. SE variants featured an increased power output of 118bhp and an upgraded close ratio gearbox. In October 1972 the +2 S 130/5 was launched, and as suggested by the name, this final derivative of the Elan was to have a five-speed gearbox and "big valve' engine with higher compression for the UK market. This stunning "+2S' was built in February 1973 and delivered on 30th April to Plough Motors Ltd, Stonehouse, Gloucestershire. The Lotus Classic Certificate of Vehicle Provenance in the history file shows that the car was destined to be their dealer demonstrator and was originally delivered in Cirrus White (Lotus paint code: LO4) with a silver roof. A handful of MoT certificates from C.B. Munks (Motor Engineers) Ltd of Hucknall, Nottinghamshire in the 1980s suggest that the car resided in the Midlands for a time, but for how long it is unknown.

The vendor purchased this car in 2014 and immediately set about bringing "HAD 424L' back to her former glory. A full respray of the car in Cirrus White was undertaken by Auto Finishers in Essex at a total cost of £6,600. Bills for parts from well-known Lotus aficionado, Paul Matty Sports Car can be found within the history file. Work carried out by Automedics and GTS Performance, a Lotus Specialist, detail the carburetor rebuild, new brakes, rebuilt suspension , painted chassis, engine service, new windscreen, new rubbers and new carpets to name but a few of the items on the "to-do' list. Riding on brand new black Minilite wheels, the car will also come with 4 original Dunlop Alloy wheels which are ready to be painted in a colour of one's choice.

"HAD242L' has been thoroughly fettled and is now presented in what can only be described as superb condition. The hard work has been done, so all that's left is to fire the engine into life and blast through the English Countryside in one of the finest British Sports Cars.