The Lotus Elan (and 26R) played the role of David vs. the Goliaths of Ferrari, Porsche and Jaguar during the late 1960s and 1970s.  Lotus never raced factory 26R’s but supported privateers and their successful racing ventures. The cars originally were sold in kit form so it’s unknown how many were built, estimates usually fall around 97 cars. With so few real 26R’s built, they are difficult to find and massively expensive. 

We like this particular Elan because it has South African racing history beginning early in its life, so it’s not some recent build someone is trying to make money on; the car has history. The seller claims this Elan is extremely lightweight (we are suckers for anything that’s been lightened to <1500 lbs!), is nicely set up with Quaife competition close-ratio gearbox, Full 26R chassis reinforcements and comes with a very complete documentation of the vintage racing history, invoices and dyno sheet. The car has raced with the VSCDA, HSR and SVRA and due to it’s history we see no problem in getting it accepted at just about any event you choose.

This Lotus is currently with Continental AutoSports for $45,900.  This looks like a great option in the under 2 liter production class for those looking to get into vintage racing. Even better for someone just starting off and learning, looking to get into a “momentum” car. Please contact them for more info, and tell them you saw it on TwoSeatsorLess.com!