"This car can be viewed in person from 14th to 18th July 2020 at our the auction site, Windsorview Lakes, Datchet, SL3 9HY
The Lotus Elan was introduced in 1962 and would go on to become one of the most successful sports cars of all time. It was the first Lotus road car to use the steel backbone chassis with fibreglass bodywork embodying Colin Chapman’s minimum weight design philosophy, weighing in at just 1,600Ibs. Powered by a 1558cc, twin-cam four cylinder engine, the Elan adopted several other firsts for a Lotus road car including four wheel disc braking, rack and pinion steering and four wheel independent suspension. 
Lotus debuted the Elan Sprint in 1970 at the Earls Court Motor Show with the official launch following in February 1971. The Elan Sprint went on to become the most desirable of the early Elans. The power was subsequently increased to 126bhp, this in turn offered a top speed of over 120mph and a 0-60mph time of just under eight seconds. These impressive performance figures were achieved through an increased compression ratio, big valve head and high lift cams.
Manufactured in October 1971, the first thing that stands out about this Lotus Sprint Fixedhead Coupé is the quality of the restoration, carried out by renowned classic Lotus restorer, Mick Miller. Miller was known for going to great lengths to improve the panel fit and overall quality of the Elan, producing restorations far superior to the day they left the factory. Well known amongst the Lotus Elan fraternity and widely respected, his cars are highly desirable. This car is no different and presents beautifully, looking resplendent in its original Gold Leaf Formula One sponsorship colours of Carnival red and Cirus white. Having come out of long-term storage, the car has benefitted from a full service by marque expert, Vincent Hayden and has also been shod with a new set of tyres. The car is running and driving beautifully, testament to the quality of the restoration which you could be forgiven for thinking had only just been completed, despite Mick Miller restoring the car in the late 1990’s.
This Sprint’s file includes invoices, old MoT test certificates and the original Owner's Handbook. This car represents a unique opportunity to own a stunning example of a British classic and is one of the highest quality Elan restorations we have ever seen.
The health and safety of both our customers and team remains the utmost priority, we are therefore operating to Government guidelines throughout viewing and auction day."