Early Sport 135 example, Top Gear provenance, exceptionally well documented
This Lotus Elise Sport 135 is described as one of approximately 50 hand-built examples and is said to be among the earliest produced. Particularly noteworthy is its documented connection to Julian Bailey, former Lotus Formula 1 driver and one of the original “Stig” drivers from Top Gear, who reportedly drove and positively reviewed this very car. The vehicle was also featured in a road test in Top Gear Magazine, which is included in the sale. The car is presented as original, accident-free, and very well maintained, accompanied by extensive documentation including a fully stamped service book.
The Lotus Elise has been regarded as a purist’s sports car since its introduction in the mid-1990s. With its lightweight bonded aluminum chassis and uncompromising focus on driving dynamics, it embodies Colin Chapman’s philosophy: “Simplify, then add lightness.”
The Sport 135 variant represents a more focused and performance-oriented version within the early Elise range. Produced in limited numbers, it was aimed at drivers seeking an even sharper and more engaging driving experience. According to various sources, only a small number of these cars were built, contributing to their desirability among collectors today.
Typical enhancements included revised suspension components and increased engine output, resulting in a highly responsive and direct driving character. Examples with well-documented provenance and notable history stand out even within this already rare subset.
This example is presented in its original Quicksilver finish and is said to feature a factory-fitted hardtop—an option reportedly found on only a small number of Sport 135 cars. It can be identified by its black roof lining. In addition to the hardtop, the original soft top and a practical rain cover are also included in the sale.
The interior is described as original and well preserved. While detailed specifications regarding materials and trim are not provided, the overall condition is said to reflect careful ownership and limited use in recent years.
The car has been regularly maintained and is reported to be in very good mechanical condition. A recent service has been carried out, including replacement of the timing belt. Further technical details should be verified through documentation or inspection.
A key highlight is the documented connection to Julian Bailey, former Formula 1 driver for Team Lotus and one of the original test drivers for the BBC’s Top Gear. It is reported that he drove and highly praised this specific car. Supporting photographs and a feature article from Top Gear Magazine, in which the car appears, are included in the sale.
Also included is the original license plate “L4NOW,” which the car reportedly wore at the time of the magazine feature. The current owner states that the car has been driven only around 3,000 kilometers over the past 13 years. Total mileage is approximately 56,100 miles.
The car is accompanied by a comprehensive history file, including a fully stamped service book and a collection of invoices reportedly covering ownership history. The Top Gear Magazine feature and additional documentation are included as part of the sale.
This Lotus Elise Sport 135 combines several attributes that enhance its appeal from a collector’s perspective: limited production, largely original condition, low usage over an extended period, and an unusual, well-documented media and driver history.
The association with Julian Bailey and its appearance in Top Gear Magazine add a compelling narrative dimension beyond its technical merits. Together with its documented history and original components, this example represents a rare opportunity in the market.
There are many Elise models—but very few tell a story quite like this one. The combination of lightweight engineering, early Sport 135 specification, and its link to the Top Gear world gives this car a distinct narrative character. It is not merely a sports car, but a small, tangible piece of British motoring culture.
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