Listed here on eBay, this 1973 Lotus Europa Twin Cam Special Big Valve is the kind of project that still holds plenty of promise for the right enthusiast. According to the seller, it retains its original 4-speed Type 352 gearbox and Stromberg carburetors, making it a complete, numbers-correct car with its drivetrain intact. This particular Europa also carries some local significance, it’s a California blue-plate car with a clean California title and is exempt from state smog certification requirements.
The car’s VIN plate lists color code L15 (Gloss Black), which means this one left the factory in black, a rare and desirable color for a Europa. The photos show aging and worn paint across the body, along with some surface rust and visible wear on the panels, but nothing that appears to indicate severe structural damage. The fiberglass body looks solid, and the car’s distinct wedge shape is still immediately recognizable, even in its current state.
Inside, the interior shows its age but remains mostly intact. The original layout appears present, including the dash, gauges, and seats—ideal for someone aiming for a faithful restoration rather than a re-creation. It’s clear that this car has been sitting for some time and will need mechanical sorting and cosmetic work before seeing the road again. Still, for fans of vintage Lotus engineering, the fundamentals are all there.
The Europa Twin Cam Special Big Valve represented one of the best evolutions of Colin Chapman’s mid-engine design philosophy, pairing lightweight construction with a lively twin-cam engine. The “Big Valve” version offered more power and refinement than earlier models, giving it genuine sports car performance for the era. Even today, a properly sorted Europa remains an engaging and rewarding driver, thanks to its direct steering and nimble chassis.
As the seller notes, this car represents a solid foundation for a full frame-off restoration. With its drivetrain intact, factory color, and complete major components, it could be a great winter project for anyone who’s wanted to experience the magic of a true Chapman-era Lotus from behind the wheel.
Would you take on this Europa restoration as a hands-on passion project, or would you keep it as a preserved survivor from the golden age of Lotus engineering?
Having had somewhere between 13 and 17 Europa’s over the years (can’t remember anymore), this is an EXTREMELY poor example, and would be a restoration nightmare. Surprising for a Cali car, but this one looks to have been stored in some really wet environment. Looks like it will need a frame replacement in addition to almost everything else on the car. You would be under water if someone gave it to you for free. A well sorted Europa is magic, this one, not at all.
As a two S2 owner l agree completely. There is only so much you can do with without spending all your money and time when there are really nice cars out there for sale
I never liked these cars just because that side profile makes it look like a Funny looking pickup truck
Unique, desirable car. BUT- Lots.Of.Trouble.Usually.Serious. I think it may take longer than a winter season. Good start, it looks to be all there !
I had a black 1969, yes this is mighty bad!!
As a Lotus, it was driven hard and put away, wet! Not a good sign! What I can’t understand is why someone would put the car up for sale and not even clean it up a little so that it shows better. Mis matched wheels, corrosion on the aluminum in the dirty engine compartment, stickers,, crappy interior pics, etc. Clearly it is not a car that was maintained! Lotuses (or Loti) are tough enough when they are in good condition………..
I’m a Europa fan from way back. Despite the desirable engine, I wouldn’t touch this one with the proverbial 10 foot pole.
Dear Sellers,
Show me one picture of the car in ‘as found’ state. Now wash and detail everything you possibly can- this makes the machine more attractive to potential buyers and also enhances value. Show me the bad stuff as well as the good stuff. It makes you look honest and gives buyers more confidence. If I had a nickel for every interior shot that’s obviously hiding wear/rips/tears, I could afford to buy this car and have it restored professionally
A Lotus go these look like they were styled in two studios. Car in front and truck in back? Seriously, great cars but maybe not this one.
I had a 73 Europa Spl, (JPS) and numbered 021, it came with all type of goodies because it was a JPS. As soon as I saw they put the Twin Cam in it that was enough for me to buy one