Lotus Europa S2, 1971
Lotus Europa
Lotus Europa•
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Chassis No.: 0151P
Registration: CHS 547J
- Restored to a high standard
- Beautifully presented in desirable Lotus Yellow
- Restored to a high standard
- Beautifully presented in desirable Lotus Yellow
The Lotus Europa used founder Colin Chapman's minimalist steel backbone chassis, first used in the Elan, while also relying on its fibreglass moulded body for structural strength, and was based on a prototype built to compete for Henry Ford II's contract to build a Le Mans racing car in the early 1960s. The four-wheel independent suspension was typical of Chapman's thinking. The rear suspension was a modified Chapman strut, as used for Chapman's earlier Formula racing car designs, with the Europa’s handling prompting automotive writers to describe as the nearest thing to a Formula car for the road.
The Series One was announced for sale in 1966 and was fitted with a modified Renault 16, 1470cc, inline-four engine and a four-speed gearbox. The Europa was designed and built to be an embodiment of Chapman's oft-stated philosophy of automotive design; "simplify, then add lightness".
A fantastic example, this Lotus Yellow Europa was restored by respected historic racer Michael Schryver around 13 years ago for his surgeon nephew. A full nut and bolt restoration ensued with, we are informed, no stone left unturned. A history of racing Lotus Elan 26Rs, Shapecraft-bodied 26Rs, Elites and more, afforded Mr. Schryver a rich knowledge on preparing Lotus cars. Since then, the car has had light use and most recently benefitted from having the oil seals on the output shafts replaced and the gear linkage repaired and improved. Whilst restored between 2012 and 2013, the car further benefitted from recommissioning works in 2023 with AM Restorations in Plymouth at a cost of £2,775.
Painted by renowned midlands-based bodywork expert Dave Rose and fully retrimmed, this car presents beautifully. The addition of a Farringdon electronic tachometer gives a subtle nod to both a family connection, and Mr. Schryver’s motorsport heritage. Supplied with a V5C registration document and history file with receipts going back to 2003. These cars are seriously impressive to drive with handling characteristics many modern cars can only dream of, and this example shouldn’t be missed. Consigned by Will Penrose
