Description
Imperial War Museum | Duxford, Cambridgeshire
Viewing: Tues 8th April from 12pm
Auction: Wed 9th April from 9am
Location: IWM Duxford Airfield, Cambridge CB22 4QR
1971 Lotus Europa
Estimate
£22, 000 - £26, 000
Registration No: CHS 547J
Chassis No: 0151P
MOT: Exempt
Current ownership since 2012
The subject of an extensive body-off restoration
Offered with current V5C document
Fitted with the Renault 1500cc engine
First registered on 25 February 1971, this Europa was purchased in 2012 and subjected to a comprehensive body-off restoration by the vendor’s father, a successful racing driver, preparation specialist and BRDC member who has successfully campaigned a wide variety of historic Lotus models over the years. Repainted in the original shade of Lotus yellow which is complimented by black upholstery and carpets, power comes from a 1470cc Renault engine allied to a 4-speed manual gearbox. Essentially unused since completion, the car has remained with the family ever since. Currently described as being in “excellent” condition as regards its bodywork, paint, interior, engine and transmission, this mid-engined wonder is worthy of detailed inspection.
The Europa caused a tremendous stir at its introduction in 1966 and small wonder for there was no other race-bred, mid-engined sports car available for anything like the same price. The Series 2, or Type 54, was introduced in April 1968 and used the same 1, 470 cc Renault engine and mechanical components as the earlier Series 1, but added a number of refinements including electric windows, adjustable seats, a new fully carpeted interior and a polished wooden dashboard fascia. Perhaps the most significant change was a switch from fully bonded construction to bolt fasteners to attach the fibreglass body to the backbone steel frame. Contemporary road tests recorded a top speed around 120 mph, 0-60 mph acceleration time of 9. 3 seconds, standing 1/ 4 mile time of around 16. 7 seconds, combined with an overall economy of around 30 mpg. Production of the Europa finally ceased in 1975, with a total of 9, 230 cars of all models having been built.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Parking and entry into the auction is free for auction attendees with a catalogue, available at the door.
