A first-generation Lotus Europa Federal Edition in a restorable state is an extremely rare find. This one was the 21st of the 145 imported into the United States in 1971, which should give you an idea of its rarity. If you have a soft spot for rare, low-slung British sports cars, this yellow two-door coupe demands a closer look. Standing at only five inches from the ground, its radical wedge shape still turns heads. The owner describes it as “unmolested,” meaning they have gone to lengths to preserve the original character. They also had a similar car about 50 years ago, but now experience difficulty climbing in and out of the vehicle, which is probably part of the reason for the ad. This 1971 Lotus Europa Federal Edition is available here on Craigslist out of Westbury, New York, for $9,800. A trade-in is acceptable, and thanks go to Tony Primo for this tip.
Under the hood is an original 1.6-liter, 1,565 cc four-cylinder engine linked to a four speed manual transmission. True to Colin Chapman’s philosophy of “simplify, then add lightness,” this featherweight flyer was built purely for the twisties. Back in 1971, it boasted a top speed of 116 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 9.2 seconds. Getting it back to those numbers will take some elbow grease, but isn’t that the whole point of a classic rescue? The seller managed to run the engine on starting fluid, but the fuel pump is noisy, which means troubleshooting the fuel delivery system is in the cards for the next owner. With its independent front suspension and iconic rear strut setup, this car has all the ingredients to regain its legendary, slot-car handling. Take note as well that the buyer plans to begin working on it this winter, which means the price will also climb as work progresses.
The compact fiberglass body remains striking, featuring the raised, recessed headlights unique to the Federal cars, classic chrome bumpers, and original steel wheels with factory hubcaps. Out back, the bold “LOTUS” lettering and “EUROPA” script are still proudly on display. Inside, the driver-focused cockpit is remarkably well-preserved. The minimalist dashboard houses a clear set of gauges, a three-spoke wheel, and a center console with wood trim surrounding the shifter.
This lightweight Lotus Europa is a rare gem, with original components and an engine that fires on starting fluid. At just $9,800 or trade-in, it is a meaningful project car before the owner starts restoration and raises the price. Are you ready to buy one of the only 145 Federal models in the USA for restoration?
Don’t see the price as being right for a project but the original fuel tank needs to be replaced with a fuel cell in case of a side hit. Owned 2 S2s and they are a bunch of fun.
I’d love to have one for a year or two for the thrill, but it seems that the old “buy the best driver that you can afford” applies to these nightmares.
I had some Elans back in the day. I drove a few Europas but they were too claustrophobic for me, especially the early S2s. If my memory still serves me well, weren’t some of the early models having fixed side windows? Somebody help me out here…..They did handle quite amazingly!!
Imagine today with all of the pickups and SUVs on the road, how they would feel.
Right, the very first series had fixed windows and a bonded in frame.
You’re right, the earliest Europas had fixed side windows. Not good for warm climates!
So close to home. I think I have to go have a look. I’d love to have a shot at one of these. A little rich for my pocket but you never know, looks like it’s all there.
I was hesitant to comment, but here goes. Maybe someone who knows these cars really well can help me out.
I take exception to the description of the shape as a “wedge”…..always liked the classic description as “looking like a breadvan.” Heck, a TR7 is definitely a wedge, but not the Europa.
And as far as the Chapman Strut rear suspension? Not here, correct?
As for “Federal headlights”, I was under the impression that Federal standards for headlight and bumper height for this car were probably complied with by raising the front end a bit. The lamps themselves would have been changed to sealed beams to comply with our standard of the time.
I agree with others that the asking price is high. Also, gotta criticize the ad for no pictures of the very vital backbone, the heart of the car.
And, finally, you best wear ballet slippers to drive it: those pedals are tight!
…small, but mighty!… mighty fun too…and pretty reliable to boot. Had a type 54 when I was in the military and criss-crossed the US many times.
In 1975, I was transferred to our company’s development lab to help transition their inkjet printer word processors to production models. One of the engineers was showing off his new Lotus Europa John Player’s Special. It glistened with its black with gold trim paintwork. It looked SO tiny next to my fairly small 1975 Toyota Celica GT that I had to wonder how its lanky owner, Kenny Williams, could fit into it much less drive it.
I had a 1969, yes i wish i had it now. Yes the early cars 67&68 had plastic windows that did not go down. Not seeing the steel wheels with hubcaps. This is too high on price, but bring a bag of cash and work a deal.
If there’s any rust on that frame, this turns into a nightmare.