Description
A fantastic Elan Sprint Drophead finished to original specification in all respects that has covered just 21, 000 miles with a very comprehensive history from new.
The Sprint was first supplied on the 21 January 1972 to a Mr Anthony Marcantonio of Newcastle by Lotus Cars directly, as detailed in the original invoice copy on file and copy of the original registration buff log book. He used the Lotus as a second car and retained it until 1978, replacing it at that point with a Ferrari 308.
The second owner, a Mr Victor Maller of Wheathampstead, Hertfordshire purchased the Sprint on the 9 March 1978 following a long search for a really good low mileage example. He kept the Lotus until 1981, selling it to his local garage proprietor, Ian Chambers, who planned to restore the car.
These plans never materialised and the Lotus with just under 21, 000 recorded miles remained in dry storage until October 2006, untouched for 25 years. At this point it was purchased by a fastidious Elan enthusiast who eventually began a full nut and bolt restoration in 2009. This work took nearly three years to complete and involved the finest marque specialists as detailed in the extensive invoicing on file, together with a full photographic log. The car was fully stripped, and every item was refurbished or replaced as required.
Following completion of the restoration the Elan joined the extensive collection of the legendary British driver, Steve Soper.
Today the car presents faultlessly with the best body finish and panel fit I have ever seen on an Elan and we’ve had some great examples over the years. The interior is similarly perfect, indeed, the whole car bears testament to the very high quality of the restoration work, completed nearly ten years ago.
On the road this Elan continues to impress, what a great driving tool it is with a turn of speed and directness of feel and huge enjoyment factor lacking in more modern or exotic fare. A perfect companion for summer motoring and not much money for a car that really delivers on the legend.
