Lotus Elan Plus 2
SOLD
- Reference U704
- Registered 1973
- Mileage 98204
- Engine 1.6
- Colour Lotus Yellow with Gold Roof
- Trim Black Ambla with Basket Weave Inserts
This is a beautifully restored Elan Plus 2. Previously sold by us in good condition, the last owner has transformed the car into excellent condition including a fully pictured repaint at considerable cost. Photos do not do this car justice. It is one of the finest examples we have ever had the pleasure to sell.
Highlights from the service history include:-
Paul Matty rebuilt the car in 2011 at 71,302 miles, including a new galvanised chassis.
Headlining changed in 2015 by us
Interior refurbishment in 2017
Extensive paint and body restoration in 2023 at a cost of £21,000, Photo build book of the paintwork restoration is included.
Rebuilt cylinder head in 2024, by us.
Supplied with handbook, handbook suppliment and a massive history file for the car, including a Lotus heritage certificate. Thousands have been spent on this Elan there is too much to list!
This Elan must be one of the finest examples available in the UK.
Features
- Electric Windows
- Electronic Ignition
- Thatcham Immobiliser and Alarm
- Hi Torq Starter Motor
- Refurbished Alloy Wheels
- Rear Seat Belts
- Walnut Dashboard
- Wooden Gear Knob
- Electric Headlamp Lifting Kit
- Uprated Radio
- Galvanised Chassis
- Stainless Exhaust
- Spot Lamps
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Additional Information
Launched as a more mature, family-oriented 4 seater alternative to the original two-seater Elan, the Plus 2 was officially branded simply as the Lotus Plus 2 rather than bearing the Elan name. The Plus 2S variant, introduced in October 1968, pushed the car further upmarket, adding a plusher interior, standard fog lights, electric windows, and improved cabin refinement.
Despite being larger and heavier than the standard two-seater Elan, the Plus 2 remains celebrated for its nimble handling and spirited performance. It boasts agile cornering, a rigid steel backbone chassis, and a lightweight fiberglass body
The Plus 2S retained the Lotus Twin Cam engine and Weber carburettors. Contemporary Lotus advertising described the car as a high-performance sports car that combined luxury with traditional Lotus handling.
Additional historical points:
The Plus 2S emerged as an evolution of the original Plus 2 rather than an entirely new model. Sources differ regarding the exact introduction date, with references indicating either October 1968 or March 1969. Regardless of the precise launch timing, the Plus 2S quickly became the preferred version of the Plus 2 range.
Lotus developed the model in response to demand for a more luxurious and better-equipped grand touring car. The objective was not to alter the core engineering package but to enhance the ownership experience through improved trim, greater equipment levels, and increased refinement.
The introduction of the Plus 2S coincided with continued development of Lotus production quality. Martin Drury, a former Rolls-Royce apprentice, was recruited to improve wiring loom quality, an increasingly important challenge due to the growing number of electrical accessories installed in the vehicle.
Demand for the Plus 2S eventually exceeded demand for the original Plus 2, leading to the discontinuation of the earlier model in December 1969.
