Lotus Europa 1971

Description:

In Brief:

• Desirable home market example
• 1 of just 172 Lotus Europa’s left on UK roads
• Race specification re-engineered by Banks Engineering
• Owned by The Vendor for the last 20 years

On the Surface: This 1971 Lotus Europa stands as one of just 172 examples still gracing the roads of the UK. Adorned in a striking red finish complemented by a sleek black leather interior, this Europa really does look the part. The Vendor’s ownership spans two decades, having been acquired as a 70th birthday present back in 2004.

Maintenance & History: Tthis home market Europa underwent a transformation at the hands of Banks Engineering, bringing it up to race specification. The car has been fitted with adjustable shock absorbers and a ceramic coated exhaust and manifold to enhance its performance.

This Europa has embarked on numerous adventures across the UK and Europe, gracing iconic tracks such as Goodwood and Le Mans on five occassions. As The Vendor approaches his 91st year, the time has come to pass on the baton of ownership, allowing another enthusiast to enjoy this Europa.

The Model: Conceived in the mid-1960s, the Lotus Europa represents a bold foray into mid-engine sports coupe design, a configuration previously reserved for Grand Prix cars. Utilising a lightweight yet robust chassis and a fiberglass body, it epitomises the innovative spirit of Lotus founder Colin Chapman. Despite its modest origins, the Europa was envisioned as a volume-produced sports car, embodying Chapman’s ethos of performance through lightweight engineering. This example is fitted with a 1600cc Twin Cam Vauxhall engine boasting Kent cam shafts.

Sale Insight: As this Europa seeks a new custodian, it presents an opportunity to own a race specification Europa, with documented history and long ownership.