1970 Lotus Elan Plus 2 Coupe

Description

Arguably one of the most significant models in the long history of Lotus, the original Type 26 Elan of 1962 was an uncompromising sports car whose spirit lives on in the current generation of Lotus road cars.  Built on a sturdy steel backbone chassis with competition derived suspension, a Triumph steering rack and Girling disc brakes all round, the Elan was endowed with terrific handling and roadholding.  The lightweight body was made from fibreglass, while under the bonnet a Ford-derived twin-cam engine gave the Elan tremendous performance.  Launched as a roadster with minimal creature comforts, the Elan was sold both in kit form or fully built and was constantly improved, becoming the S2 in 1964 before a Series 3 version was launched at the London Motor Show in September 1965, with two new Type Numbers - the 36 (Fixed Head Coupe) and the 45 (Drophead), which appeared some nine months later.  Although Lotus gave the green light to the development of a longer wheelbase derivative with two-plus-two seating as early as December 1962, it wasn’t until August 1967 the Plus 2 model was finally launched, coinciding with the move to the new Hethel factory.  The Plus 2 continued to employ the rugged Ford-derived twin-cam motor, developing 105bhp with twin Weber 40DCOE carburettors and a four-speed gearbox, although the final 130/5 cars made from late 1972 until production ceased in December 1974 were equipped with a five-speed unit.  The updated Plus S introduced in July 1969 boasted a more luxurious interior featuring rocker switches and optional seat bels, heated rear glass and tinted windows.