This 1969 Lotus Europa is a fantastic drive and everything a true sports car should be.
A special, car in that it’s been improved at real expense and time to be razor sharp and confidence boosting in its performance and handling.
Countless hours and development by “the late” Trevor Hine (lotus guru) and ace racing driver Stuart Kostera have been added to what many consider one of Colin Chapmans greatest achievements. A car using everyday components that often beat the most exotic machinery from anywhere in the world.
Not perfect by any means, it’s definitely presentable and turns heads.
Being a fiberglass body on a backbone chassis rust will never be an issue.
Specs
Trevor Hine built and heavily developed R16 Renault (such a sweet revy powerhouse), DCOE 45mm single Webber, gas flowed twin valve springs alloy cylinder head, fabricated extractors (like art), 5 speed transaxle,Rose jointed shift linkage, Twin Fuel Tanks, Terratrip Rally Meter and digital speedo, rev limiter and shift light, front chin spoiler, later year front discs, rear anti-roll bar, brake balance F/R, Rose jointed rear end,adjustable rear shocks, battery isolation and Cams log book. Concession licensed to Feb/26 or pay the extra for full WA rego.
Spare’s included.
Custom fabricated rollbar and intricate aluminum cowling for cooling system, spare cylinder head (undeveloped) original 4 speed box and bell housing. Racing harness. Race exhaust and muffler, set of new suspension bushes, braided brake lines and lots lots more. Huge records and receipts going back 20+ years. Previous owner 18 years and a great club competition history inc Targa Tasmania. 2 sets of keys.
The not so good.
Shrinkage of paint on the fiberglass body (I’d vinyl wrap it in gulf racing colors) drivers seat is worn and tatty and the interior is tired, an oil weep from the mechanical fuel pump delete cover (I may have fixed shortly), and I think it’s time to replace hoses and belts. Sometimes the drivers side window is stiff, but so would you be after 56 years of being amazing.
BUT it drives bloody sensational, the motor and 5 speed transaxle are a revelation and every drive is like being at the Le Mans 24 hour in France but on the best side of the fence. Priced to sell, can be easily maintained and used Dailey or the basis for restoration and further club competition.
Find another car that’s better value or as rewarding.
