Lotus Elite - A Brief History

The Lotus Elite was introduced in 1957 at the Earls Court Motor Show, and was very well received by both the press public alike. The sleek and stylish bodywork was of an all fibreglass monocoque construction. This had considerable strength, yet was very light at the same time giving the car outstanding performance and handling. Mechanically the Elite featured an all aluminium four cylinder single overhead camshaft engine from Coventry Climax which drove the rear wheels via an MGA gearbox. Suspension was independent both front and rear. A Series II version of the car was produced from mid 1960 with revised rear suspension and improved interior. The Carburettor on this car had been changed to up the power output to 85 bhp. Further versions of the car were to be produced, including a "Special Equipment" model of the series II which featured had an all synchromesh 4 speed ZF gearbox and a more highly tuned version of the same 1216cc Coventry Climax engine. In this guise the Elite was capable of topping 120 mph and had a 0-60 time of under nine seconds. The Elite ended its life in 1963 after just over 1000 models had been produced.

Specifications (standard Series 1 model)

Years Produced

1957 - 1963

Body Type

2-door, 2-seater sports, fibreglass monocoque construction

Length

12ft 6in

Width

4ft 10in

Weight

1440lb

Engine

Coventry Climax 1216cc 4 cylinder inline, Single overhead camshaft

Power

75 bhp @ 6100 rpm

Gearbox

4 speed manual (MG) with synchromesh on 2nd, 3rd and top

Driven Wheels

Rear

Brakes

Discs front & rear, hydraulic operation

Front Suspension

Independent, Upper & Lower wishbone, anti-roll bar.

Rear Suspension

Independent, Chapman strut

Club Lotus

Lotus Group

Lotus books at Amazon.co.uk

To add a link, report an error, or contribute a photograph - click here

[Home]   [Makes]   [Directory]   [Gallery]   [Contact]   [Forum]   [Chat]   [Shop]   [Fun]