Probably the best Plus 2 remaining in South Africa, and a car that has significant local history having been part of the TLR for over 40 years. The seller bought the car in 1973 and was its 3rd owner. It has its original receipt of purchase, MOT histories, dealer-stamped service book and even a copy of the magazine advert placed by the garage from where he bought it. The first owner confirmed he ordered the car in primer only as he wanted it painted Silver, which was a non-Lotus colour. The second owner then had it re-sprayed in Lagoon Blue but retained the silver roof, and that is how it has remained since.
The seller brought the car with him to SA in 1977 and used it as his daily driver for several years. He joined the fledgling TLR in 1981 when he moved from Cape Town to Joburg and used it for numerous club events including gymkhanas and long-distance runs. Always expertly maintained with several sensible upgrades, the car was consistently reliable over hundreds of thousands of kilometres. Within the last two years, the car was stripped externally and internally, resprayed and the interior was completely refurbished including a new walnut veneer dash, wiring, rebuilt instrumentation, and seats/carpets/roof lining.
The car has its original matching-number engine and cylinder head. The seller removed and fettled the head with new valve guides, some mild porting and Sprint specification CPL2 camshafts. The big end and main bearings were checked (still excellent since the car’s last rebuild 10 years ago) and the engine runs superbly with correct oil pressure and cool water temperature.
Other desirable fitments are Miller solid driveshafts with CV joints and Koni adjustable dampers. The Lotus is still on its original chassis, to which the seller had over the years made the recommended strengthening additions around the engine mounts, front & rear suspension/shock mounts and diff. However, as a precaution he had acquired a genuine low-mileage Lotus replacement chassis in ‘as new’ condition which will be included in the sale.
Papers in order (status reflects 'Used/gebruik') and licence up to date.
Available to view by appointment in Johannesburg.