1970 LOTUS EUROPA

Every now and again, a real gem presents itself, this time in the form of a Lotus Europa S2 that has been in the same ownership since new. It must be unique (unless somebody knows otherwise)?

Accompanying the vehicle is a lever arch file with a comprehensive document portfolio which confirms the following…

Provided by Victor Raysbrook Motors, Lotus dealers that were located on Watford High Street. Within the file is the original order form and subsequent invoice for the kit, totalling £1449. Additionally there is an invoice for the engine, gearbox, exhaust, wheels plus more, for £613. Amusingly, there is also an explanatory letter from Lotus Cars, explaining purchase Tax and, in a roundabout way, how to avoid paying it.

Following a pre-delivery inspection, there is a warranty form from the factory (now expired, sadly) along with correspondence relating to carburetion problems that resulted in the supplying dealer fitting a new Weber 28/36 unit that remains on the car to this day.

Further notable landmarks include the fitment of a 1565cc Renault 16TS engine, by Peak Performance Co Ltd in Hayes, Middlesex, in 1983, providing slightly more peppy performance (£1088) and a chassis change by marque expert Paul Matty in 2003 at a total cost of £6324 (equivalent to £11400 today). The vehicle has covered just 9000 miles on the current engine and a mere 2000 miles since the chassis change.

FGJ 66J accompanied the owners in to semi-retirement in the south of France where they resided for over a decade, with the vehicle being correctly registered with the authorities out there, before returning to the UK in 2021, with DVLA re-assigning the original and only number to the car. This period is well documented with both official paperwork and servicing invoices present.

So, in conclusion, a fairly unique opportunity to buy a one-owner Europa with a fully transparent history via the documentation. Mechanically, FGJ 66J is in very good order, with a brief run revealing good oil pressure, electrical systems and gear change. Cosmetically, the bodywork and paint is broadly original and is showing some signs of age but definitely not bad enough to restore; after all, a car can only be original once, as they say. With regards to the interior, the soft fittings remain in very good condition with only minor crazing to the wooden dashboard.

For further information and to arrange a viewing of both the car and the paperwork, please call 07718 385168 at any time – evenings and weekends always a pleasure. Price to be discussed; it won’t be cheap but I do want this one to go to a good home so please call for a chat.

Many thanks for looking!