Description
1969 Lotus Elan S4 SE Fixed Head Coupe
Registration Number: AGH 374G
Chassis Number: 8684
Recorded Mileage: 18, 126 miles
- Desirable ‘Special Equipment’ version
- Originally maintained by Rob Walker at Corsley Garage
- In current private ownership for over 40 years
The new Elan, introduced at the 1962 Earls Court Motor Show was the creation of Lotus design and development engineer Ron Hickman. Using the 'Chapman Bracket', i. e. a steel backbone chassis with lightweight fibreglass bodywork, the latest model boasted fully independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, pop-up headlights and integral bumpers. With a lively 'twin-cam' mated to a four-speed (later five-speed) manual transmission, the Elan changed the rules in terms of ride, handling and performance. The S4 gained a thinner and lighter body with flared arches allowing for wider wheels. A smaller percent of the 3000 or so Elan S4s were to ‘Special Equipment’ specification, featuring servo assisted brakes, an SE engine developing 118 bhp instead of 105 bhp, safety belts, a leather covered steering wheel, knock-on wheels with chrome embellishers, carpeted boot interior and Special Equipment badges. The model’s weight advantage, powerful engine, and remarkable agility make the Elan as satisfying to own and enjoy now as it was in the 1960s.
First registered in March of 1969, we are pleased to see the history file for this S4 Fixed Head Coupe contains its original Lotus Service Voucher Book, stamped at 528 miles by F. Thomas & Co., and at 2, 824 and 5, 417 miles in 1970 Rob Walker at Corsley Garage. The Elan then moved to London, being serviced twice by Len Street Engineering in Chelsea until just over 10, 000 miles.
Having now been in single family ownership since 1983, shortly after purchasing the Elan was treated to minor repairs and the bodywork refinished in French Blue. The Lotus was enjoyed for a number of years before being mechanically refurbished in the 1990s. In recent times the Elan has been stored and unused, and is now ready for full restoration. A tempting project, this desirable Series 4 Special Equipment is offered complete with original service and owner’s handbooks, an older vehicle registration document and a handful of invoices dating to the beginning of current ownership.
This classic vehicle will be coming to auction with Dore & Rees Auctions on Wednesday 4th December at Five Zeroes Supercars Ltd, Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire. For further information please contact the Motoring department.
