1979 Lotus Elite 504 *WITHDRAWN
| Registration | KFW 430V |
| Chassis Number | 7905/1512A |
| Engine Number | DM90779041637 |
| Odometer reading | 73,000 miles |
| Estimate | No Reserve |
From 1974 to 1982, Lotus produced the four-seat, considerably larger Type 75 and later Type 83 Elite. Lotus sought, with this design, to position itself upmarket and move away from its kit car past. The Elite replaced the ageing Lotus Elan Plus 2 whilst the mid-engined Lotus Esprit replaced the Europa. Oliver Winterbottom designed the Elite’s striking shape and he is quoted as saying that the basic chassis and suspension layout were designed by Colin Chapman making the Elite and its sister design, the Éclat, the last Lotus road cars to have significant design input from Chapman himself.
This genuine UK supplied Lotus was purchased from a Lotus enthusiast and journalist in June 2012. It had been stored for some time but was then lovingly re-commissioned. The works involved a new cam belt, ignition system and new Weber DCOE45 carburettors. The twin cam engine is nicely detailed and mated to an automatic gearbox that works well. The air conditioning pump has also been removed, a common practice in period that improved power and fuel consumption and new brakes and fuel pump have been fitted. Importantly, the rare factory option leather is in good order, as are the rest of the interior fittings. A current MoT test certificate, valid until the end of May 2018 is also supplied alongside service bills. A rare sight on the roads today, this Lotus Elite represents an unusually attractive opportunity offered, as it is, with no reserve.
Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each Lot prior to the sale. Accordingly, buyers are on notice that each vehicle is offered ‘as is/as seen’ subject to the Terms and Conditions for the auction. All registration numbers, engine and chassis details are sourced from registration documents provided to Historics by the client or representative or HPI checks and buyers are to satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of these details. Buyers are advised to inspect the vehicle in person or use a professional to carry out this service. Historics will not entertain disputes over descriptions.