1971 Lotus Elan Sprint FHC

The Lotus Elan (1962-1973) was Colin Chapman's masterpiece - a lightweight sports car with the legendary Lotus-Ford Twin Cam engine. Backbone chassis and fibreglass body. Outstanding handling defined the class. Around 12,200 built. The benchmark for sports car dynamics.

Chassis: Steel backbone - rust is critical concern. Check centre section thoroughly. Fibreglass body hides chassis condition. Engine: Twin Cam - head gaskets, timing chain, oil leaks. Well understood but needs care. Gearbox: Ford-based - synchros wear. Electrics: Lucas - usual issues.

Sprint specification, S1 or S2 (earliest), SE specification, Big Valve engine, Good chassis, Matching numbers