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Description

Lot details

Year: 1973
Make: Lotus
Model: Elan Plus 2S 130/5
Registration: NKC 699M
Chassis No: 73021200L
Odometer: 4,600

• Highly desirable 'S 130/5' specification
• Recent Mechanical Work
• Well-presented example

The Lotus Elan Plus 2 represented the evolution of the original Elan, combining greater refinement, comfort and practicality with the exceptional handling for which Lotus had become renowned. Designed as a 2+2 grand tourer, it featured a lightweight fibreglass body mounted on a steel backbone chassis and remained true to Colin Chapman's philosophy of “adding lightness”. Powered by Lotus's twin-cam engine, the Plus 2 delivered spirited performance, precise steering and remarkable agility, while offering increased cabin space and long-distance usability. Elegant styling, pop-up headlights and a well-appointed interior helped establish the model as one of Lotus's most charismatic creations.

This 1973 example is presented in Carnival Red, having originally left the factory in blue, and the bodywork remains in very good order. The Plus 2S had benefited from a few refinements introduced two years earlier, including standard fog lamps and a more luxurious interior, further enhancing its grand touring credentials. Particularly desirable, this car is the ultimate 130/5 specification, equipped with the more powerful 130bhp twin-cam engine and the sought-after five-speed manual gearbox. As the final development of the Elan Plus 2 before production ceased in 1975, the 130/5 is widely regarded as the most collectable and desirable variant of the model. The tan leather interior presents very well, with the rear seats showing minimal wear, while the dashboard was professionally retrimmed and refitted earlier this year. Included in the history file are invoices for extensive mechanical work carried out over the last eleven years. A discreet push-button start system has also been fitted, providing a subtle modern enhancement. Production figures for the Elan Plus 2 remain the subject of debate, with estimates ranging between 3,000 and 5,000 examples. Fewer than 1,200 are believed to survive on the road today, making any Plus 2 a rare sight. Combined with the scarcity of the 130/5 specification, this well-presented example represents an exciting opportunity to acquire one of the finest and most usable classic Lotuses of its era. Consigned by Charlie McCreery

Condition & Registration

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Ready to drive: Not provided

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Technical Details

Vehicle data

Make: Lotus
Model series: Elan
Model name: Elan Plus 2S 130/5
First registration date: Not provided
Year of manufacture: 1973
Mileage (read): 4,600 mi
Chassis number: Not provided
Engine number: Not provided
Gearbox number: Not provided
Matching numbers: Not provided
Number of owners: Not provided

Technical details

Body style: Coupe
Power (kW/hp): 94/128
Cubic capacity (cm³): 1558
Cylinders: 4
Doors: 2
Steering: Right (RHD)
Gearbox: Manual
Gears: 5
Transmission: Rear
Front brakes: Disc
Rear brakes: Disc
Fuel type: Petrol

Individual Configuration

Exterior color: Others
Manufacturer color name: -

Interior color: Others
Interior material: Others

Location

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1973 | Lotus Elan Plus 2S 130/5