Lotus Elite 1977 Advice

[Racey1]

Hi everyone, i've got a very general question to ask about the car in my title.

I have a shell (and all parts) which was a project (only barely started) - whats the interest in this model? Is there a big market for resto projects on this model?

Also, what sort of interest would a genuine good condition original workshop manual be?

Is there a specialist which is a fountain of knowledge who I should call?

All advice is very much appreciated

[xj6executive]

My goodness, well, the Elite is certainly a rare car these days, I could not tell you the last time I saw one

It really depends how much the car means to you, Im sure a top notch elite is not going to be worth masses, however, I think they are a fine car and would have one over an early series eclat

There are plenty of specialists out there who I am sure you can ask for further advice, you could try Barry Ely sportscars or maybe join one of the lotus forums

[minor5]

[quote=xj6executive]My goodness, well, the Elite is certainly a rare car these days, I could not tell you the last time I saw one

I think you are confusing the type 14 Elite with this (501/502/503)
wedge Elite's.

a nice 1977 car is probably only worth 2k to 2.5k max
so unless there is no paint work/body damage and the running gear & chassis
is a1 it is not economic, but if you just want to do it for the fun/love of the car go for it, but an egine rebuild alone could cost up to 6k if its done properly.

[dpr59]

Drop in on www.lotusexcel.co.uk

There's a section on Elite/Eclat and lots post from fellow owners.

[xj6executive]

Nope, I know which elite he meant, the predecessor to the Eclat/Excel

[simonelite501]

For a detailed account of Elite ownership read this..................http://www.pistonheads.com/members/showCar.asp?carId=891

[Comadis]

as these cars do not have a big value i think its better to leave your project as it is.

you may sell it in parts (dont expect to get much for it) or you buy a complete car in good nick (do not buy one without a "galvanized" (replacement) chassis) and use your project for parts.