They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. Luckily for this Lotus Europa for sale, the owner included plenty of pictures in the ad because there are few words. Lotus debuted the Europa model in December 1966, with initial sales beginning in February 1967. Quoting a February 1974 review in Road Test Magazine: “Lotus claims that the Europa is a race-bred car, but it is really more of a racing car than a boulevardier.” So, you can technically drive a racing car on the street, but it’s still a racing car. This Europa Special is now available here on Craigslist for $15,000. It is located in Lomita, California. Thanks to Rocco B for tipping us off about this one.
The ’74 Europa came with a robust 1600 cc twin-cam engine that produced 126 horsepower and could go from 0 to 60 in just 7.8 seconds. The owner says this one has a strong engine and some VARA modifications. These include bladder tanks, a racing harness, etc. It also has electronic ignition. The transmission is a 5-speed gearbox. Weighing in at just over 1600 pounds, you could see this little two-seater blister around a road course.
The owner says it is “a daily driver but needs work – interior mostly.” The Roman Purple exterior is said to be original. The interior looks worn but not horrible. It could benefit from a new wood dash panel and shifter knob. The center console armrest is warped, I think? I tried to see if a Europa had a center console glove box, but it seems it didn’t come with one unless you added it later. Still, what’s coming out of the front of it? I am sure a knowledgeable Europa fan will comment with the correct info. I also see the seat belts are in a bit of disrepair and probably need to be replaced.
That said, if you’re interested in an early ‘70s Europa Special, contact the seller for more information. Based on the listed VARA modifications, I’d think this is more of a track toy than a boulevard cruiser, as Road Test Magazine believed in 1974. Still, whipping around Willow Springs or a similar course could be a lot of fun. Anyone up for a Twin-Cam Brit?
On the track or on the road these cars are pure fun.
Twink! Crackin’ cars.
I had a 1969. It does need some TLC, i think if you could get it for $10k-$12k it would be a great deal!! As long as you could handle that purple paint.