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Description

The Lotus Elan +2 (the Type 50) was introduced in 1967 – retaining the performance and agility of the original Elan, it represented a more family-orientated version of the car, with a longer wheelbase and the addition of two (small) rear seats – offering potential accommodation for children. Utilising the same backbone-type chassis and a wider track, the revised coupe body provided a wider, longer cockpit giving its occupants more leg and shoulder room. It also had more luggage space, better soundproofing and a more up-market interior, making it more comfortable for longer distance driving.

The +2 retained the same powerplant and running gear as the Elan – using the Ford-derived 1.6-litre Lotus twin-cam engine and a 4-speed manual gearbox, together with fully independent suspension all round and disc brakes on all four wheels. Despite the extra size and a little extra weight, the +2 provided excellent handling and spritely performance.

The introductory +2 model was replaced by the +2S in 1969 and offered a little more luxury over the original, with upgraded upholstery and electric windows. In 1971, the +2/130 was made available, featuring the “Big-valve” version of the twin-cam engine - with a claimed 126 bhp – giving improved acceleration and top speed. This was further enhanced with the option of a 5-speed gearbox in October ’72 (the ‘+2S/130 5’).

Production of the model ended in December 1974 and it is estimated that between 4 and 5,000 cars were built.

The +2S/130 offered here was supplied new, in Jersey by local dealers La Motte Garages. Whilst right hand drive, the VIN number tells us it was an export model (suffix ‘M’). We have very little history for the car but know from the limited service record that it had clocked 6,000 miles by the end of 1972. It moved to the UK in 1976 but returned to the island in 1979, being re-registered in January of that year. Remaining in the hands of the same owner, the car fell out of use within a couple of years and was garage-stored (dry and warm surroundings) for the next four decades until his death, following which we acquired the car. This ‘time capsule’ car shows less than 61,000 miles – much as it did when first returned to the island.

The Lotus will require full re-commissioning. It is not currently drivable, although we have verified the engine turns over, but have not attempted to fire it up. The tyres have been replaced, so the vehicle is mobile and can easily be wheeled around.

Whilst not unmarked, the bodywork is in remarkably good condition and there are no large areas of crazing. The white paintwork looks good after a clean and polish. The engine bay does betray the amount of time the car has been standing. The brightwork is all there and this too, is in reasonable condition for its age. The wheels are tarnished but serviceable.

The interior is very original throughout – the dashboard is complete (a period radio is fitted) and the seating and carpets are clearly used but do not show too much in the way of wear.

The top performance model in the Elan +2 range, this very original +2S/130 has been untouched for several decades – last on the road in 1981 - and kept in secure storage. In a largely unmolested state, it is a great candidate for an enthusiast to return it to first class condition and could be an excellent example of a much sought after Lotus model.

The original Owners Handbook is with the car. There is no further documentation with the Elan beyond some limited service history from the early 70’s.

The car is currently Jersey registered and we can assist with (international) shipping and importation processes if required.

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Technical Details

Vehicle data

Make: Lotus
Model series: Elan
Model name: Elan Plus 2S 130
First registration date: 02/1971
Year of manufacture: 1971
Mileage (read): 61,809 mi
Chassis number: 7100000183M
Engine number: P/24007
Gearbox number: Not provided
Matching numbers: Yes
Number of owners: Not provided

Technical details

Body style: Coupe
Power (kW/hp): 84/114
Cubic capacity (cm³): 1558
Cylinders: 4
Doors: 2
Steering: Right (RHD)
Gearbox: Manual
Gears: 4
Transmission: Rear
Front brakes: Disc
Rear brakes: Disc
Fuel type: Petrol

1971 | Lotus Elan Plus 2S 130

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