Estimated Price: £30,000 - £40,000

The Lotus Elan S2 is widely regarded as one of the most influential British sports cars of the 1960s, embodying Colin Chapman’s philosophy of 'simplify, then add lightness'. With its advanced backbone chassis, independent suspension and lightweight glassfibre body, the Elan delivered exceptional handling and driver engagement, setting new standards for road and competition cars alike. The Series 2 further refined the original concept, offering improved usability while retaining the model’s core dynamic strengths.

This right-hand drive drophead example was supplied new in Cirrus White, a colour it retains today, presenting with a clean and period correct appearance that suits the Elan’s delicate and purposeful lines. The car benefits from a comprehensive restoration carried out by the current owner over a two-year period, completed in 2025, with a detailed file accompanying the car to support the works undertaken. The restoration was carried out with a focus on sympathetic renewal, preserving the character of the car while ensuring it is well prepared for continued use.

The car has been in current ownership for an impressive 42 years, having originally been acquired directly from a long-term owner and old school friend of the vendor. Prior to restoration, the Elan was used for club racing with sucess, no doubt benefitting from the model’s renowned lightweight handling and agility. This longstanding ownership is reflected in both the condition of the car and the depth of accompanying documentation.

Mechanically, the car has been the subject of significant specialist attention, with both engine and gearbox rebuilt by respected Lotus engineers. The engine fitted today is described as a ‘fast road’ specification unit, fully balanced and understood to produce approximately 140bhp, offering notably stronger performance while remaining suited to regular road use. Since the rebuilds were completed, the car has covered approximately 1,400 miles, showing it has been properly exercised and maintained rather than simply stored following restoration.

Further enhancing the car’s usability a replacement chassis supplied and fitted by Spyder Cars has been used during the restoration. Spyder Cars are well regarded within Lotus circles, and the fitment of one of their chassis is often viewed as a sensible and desirable upgrade for continued use.

The extensive accompanying history file contains numerous receipts relating to restoration works, servicing and ongoing maintenance accumulated throughout the ownership period. Also included are the original owner’s instruction book, together with copies of the workshop manual and parts list. A tonneau cover and toolkit are supplied with the car, and a new MOT will be provided prior to sale.

The Elan S2 remains one of the most rewarding classic sports cars to drive, combining delicate steering, low weight and exceptional balance in a manner few contemporaries can match. This example, with its recent restoration, long-term ownership and carefully developed fast road mechanical specification, represents a particularly appealing opportunity for the enthusiast seeking a usable and highly engaging Lotus.