You may remember back in August when we featured 15 foreign cars, mainly European sports cars, all listed on eBay at the same time with low opening bids and no reserve. The same auction company is back at it again, with four British cars listed on eBay and the promise of more to come. As before, they are located in Sanbornville, New Hampshire. Two are MGA’s, and two are early Lotus Europas. Thanks to Jim S. for sending in these finds!
The first MGA found here on eBay is in somewhat better shape than the other one. It appears to have been stripped of all paint some time ago, and while that isn’t that bad for the aluminum hood, trunk lid and doors, it probably hasn’t helped the fenders and shrouds. I was intrigued by a 1962 inspection decal that I can’t quite read on the windshield, as well as an early 1960’s Sebring 12 Hour commemorative decal, but a quick check of the entry list for 1962 showed three factory MGA’s, all coupes, and no privateers. I suspect this one could be restored, or at least refurbished, but it would depend on a closer look. And just because you can doesn’t mean it’s the best thing to do.
The second MGA, listed here on eBay, has been largely disassembled and I think is best used as a parts car, especially considering the engine has obviously been open to the elements for a while. Maybe the two of them would make a workable package, since the engine in the first one looks complete.
The first Lotus Europa that is found here on eBay has obviously been converted to a racing car, and features a roll cage and some very unusual wide wheels. There’s a lot of damage to the passenger side fiberglass, though. The engine and transaxle are out but included.
The second Europa looks worse than the first, although there may be some components that could be used to repair the race car. It’s listed here on eBay. In either case, if I wanted to attempt a very ambitious restoration, I would be looking at buying a pair of cars. I’m hoping further cars offered from these folks are more complete than any of the four of these! Would you take on any of the four? I think these might end up being parted out.Neily Estate
Not much there to work with on all four cars.
Mark S sums it up. What a sad mess! Even the sort of semi-intact race car would be a huge project what with the shattered fiberglass and corroded and missing components (“Expertise regarding Lotus requires experience and knowledge—we have neither and cannot answer questions about what this car should have or does have.”).
Note to Jamie: I suspect you have lots of time on your hands if every souvenir windshield sticker triggers research on the possibility of a racing history for a car that shows no sign of having been set up for competition.