1974 Lotus Elite

The Lotus Elite represents two distinct cars: the revolutionary Type 14 (1957-1963) with the world's first fibreglass monocoque, and the Type 75 (1974-1982) luxury GT with 2+2 seating. The original Elite won its class at Le Mans; the later version offered practical Lotus ownership. Both are significant in Lotus history.

Elite Type 14: Fibreglass monocoque can crack around stress points. Very difficult to repair properly. Coventry Climax engine needs specialist care. Type 75: Steel backbone chassis - check for corrosion. 907/912 engine - head gaskets, timing chain, cam belt (later). Gearbox weak on early cars. Both need specialist knowledge.

Type 14: ZF gearbox, good monocoque, known history. Type 75: Later cars with better gearbox, air conditioning, good service history