In 1974, Lotus Cars was looking to change up its image and created a 4-seat sports/touring auto called the Elite Type 75 (later replaced by the Type 83). These cars were produced through 1982 and are not a common sight these days, with their “shooting brake” fiberglass body and rear hatchback. This ’74 edition is said to run great and may not need much beyond new paint. Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, the British car is available here on craigslist for $9,900 cash or trade for a pontoon boat. Thanks for the tip, Chuck Foster!
The Elite was well-done from an aerodynamics standpoint, with a drag coefficient of 0.30. It was also the world’s most expensive car with a 4-cylinder engine at 120 cubic inches and 155 hp. This was achieved using an aluminum block, 4-valve, twin-carburetor, DOHC Type 907 motor. The body was mounted on a steel backbone chassis evolved from the Elan and Europa models, also with 4-wheel independent suspension. The cars were quick, doing 0-60 mph in eight seconds with a top speed of 125 mph. The fact they only weighed 2,300 was a huge plus.
This edition has only 36,000 miles after some 48 years. There are no issues with its mechanical components (that we know of), so most of the buyer’s attention would be focused on cosmetics. We’re told it has the European front bumper which would have been less adherent to U.S. collision standards of the day. Some new green paint and a good detailing of the interior might just send you on your way.
The Elite was available in four main variations, set apart by equipment levels. We don’t know which one applies to the seller’s car. 501 – “base” version. 502 – added air-conditioning to the base model. 503 – added air-conditioning and power-steering. Does anyone see any A/C plumbing under the hood?
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