1961 Lotus Elite

Coupe

4 - Cyl.

Manual

EB1526

Clear

Gasoline

Normal 0 false false false MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Description of LOTUS ELITE Chassis Number 1526 Summary 1961 Lotus Elite Coventry Climax FWE ZF 4-speed all-synchro 4.22:1 differential Wire wheels (chrome finish) Graphite gray bodywork Black (part leather) with gray carpet interiorFitted car coverManuals (car, Climax engine, ZF gearbox, tech) included Approximately 66,000 miles Overall Specification This Elite is an excellent example of what some regard as a “Series 1 ½” as viewed within the context of the overall production run of these cars. This means that it has certain features of the earlier (Series 1) Elites, such as the braking system (alloy rear calipers and floor-mounted handbrake), but with the Chassis Body Unit (CBU) of the later (Series 2) cars, manufactured by Bristol Aircraft. The drivetrain of chassis number 1526 is comprised of the Climax FWE engine with some tuning upgrades (see details below), combined with the desirable ZF gearbox and the very well-matched 4.22:1 differential, all of which were offered as options on Elites during the period of production. The Stage of tuning, ZF gearbox, and differential were all upgraded by the current owner (the originally equipped components, including the twin SU carbs and manifold, can be included in the sale, if desired). The engine tune, which is comprised of standard pistons, combustion chambers normalized at 27cc’s, using a composite cylinder head gasket, represents a calculated compression ratio of 9.69:1. Induction is provided by two Weber 40 DCOE carburetors, using “Cosworth” style manifolds. This engine has the optional 5-bearing camshaft and carrier, with the higher specification camshaft providing .360” lift, set at a lobe center angle of 106 degrees. Exhaust is handled by a new stainless steel 4-in-to-1 header and a “large-bore” stainless system with polished standard Elite-style mufflers and tips. This combination produces a smooth idle, broad range of performance, without any fouling, overheating or other aspects of temperament associated with higher states of tune. This Stage of tune is complimented by the ratios of the ZF gearbox and differential, both well-matched to the horsepower and torque characteristics of the engine. The remainder of the car is generally as original, with the exception of a few fairly popular current and period-type upgrades. These include the replacement of the original steering column rubber flex joint with a solid u-joint type alternative, replacement of scroll-type rear main seal with a more leak-resistant modern type, the addition of a fuel pressure regulator/filter assembly, a remote spin-on type oil filter in-line with a front-mounted oil cooler system, a leather spare tire retaining strap, hood and trunk props, Koni front shock absorbers, slightly heavier-rate rear springs with Koni inserts and adjustment sleeves to allow fine tuning of ride height/loading, Aeroquip braided stainless hydraulic lines, AP Lockheed high performance clutch, Lucas Le Mans headlamps, Monza flip-type fuel and oil filler caps, Raydyot replica outside mirrors, a manual electric cooling fan switch, and a master battery cut-off switch inside the car. Most of these upgrades are easily removable, if desired. Condition Review Bodywork (CBU): In 1982, the CBU was resprayed (from light blue to graphite gray) in conjunction with a light restoration performed by Grand Prix SSR in Long Island, NY. The finish is glossy and the brightwork is excellent. When examined in detail, the GRP and paint themselves are in reasonable condition for their age, with some surface stress cracks common on Lotus cars, and some paint chips from use. The alignment of the hood and truck are very good, however the door alignment could be improved, as these doors do not snap shut as easily as on some other Elites. The lock cylinders stick from infrequent use. The underside and interior surfaces of the CBU are clean and in good condition. Body rubber seals have all been replaced and are in excellent condition. The car has always been garaged, and has never been in an accident. Interior: The door skins are new, leather-covered items from David Mousley. The carpeting was replaced in 1982 remains in excellent condition. The seats have never been recovered, but remain in generally good condition, with one small separation of a seam on the passenger’s side and the padding having the natural side effects of years of use. There is an extra set of seats available in the sale, in the event the new owner wishes to have a set reupholstered. The dashboard finish is excellent, while the rear compartment’s painted GRP surfaces around the storage area are in average condition, with some noticeable variations in color consistency. The trunk is fully carpeted, complete with battery cover and jack, and in excellent condition. Engine/Drivetrain: The engine was replaced with a rebuilt unit in 1982, due to the prior engine suffering a bottom end failure. In 2005, in conjunction with upgrading the gearbox from the MG to the ZF unit, the engine was removed and fully sorted, to include a fresh valve job and the replacement of all bearings, gaskets, seals, rings, pumps, hoses, etc., with all new or rebuilt items. During the detailed (to spec, no silicone) reassembly, the castings were cleaned and deburred, surfaces were trued, reciprocating parts were dynamic balanced, ports were matched, and the engine was carefully run-in with the result being a solid, oil-tight, cool-running FWE engine. The gearbox gaskets were replaced and the differential was exchanged and fitted with new output shaft bearings and all clearances/tolerances checked. All u-joints are new, as are inner and outer rear hub bearings and rear output shaft/spline assemblies. The car has been driven over five thousand miles since 2005 with no issues, leaks, whatsoever. Suspension: Rear Koni inserts were rebuilt by Koni, NA in 2005. The front Koni shock absorbers were installed in the 1980s and function perfectly. Included in the sale, but not installed, are a new front rubber bushing kit and a pair of rear metacone rubbers. The front end is in need of wheel alignment. Wheels and Tires: The rear two of the chrome-finish wire wheels are new (Dayton), while the front two show some signs of flaking chrome upon close inspection. The spare wheel is in good condition. All five tires are very old 155 SR 15 Pirelli Cinturato S types. All should be replaced with the tire choice of the new owner. Braking/Hydraulic: Both brake and clutch master cylinders are rebuilt. All pipes are new stainless steel with stainless fittings. Hoses are braided stainless steel. The rear calipers were recently rebuilt and have new pads. The front calipers were previously rebuilt and remain fully functional. Electrics/Controls: Most wiring on the car is original and all is in excellent functional and cosmetic condition. All electrical items function as intended, including the horn/flash switch, the combination switch controlling the head/sidelights/instrument illumination and interior lighting, two-speed/self-returning wipers, heater fan, and turn signals. The horns are original (loud!). The alternator, regulator, starter relay, generator and electric fuel pump have all been replaced or rebuilt and have proved to be 100% reliable. All instruments have been cleaned, professionally refurbished and the speedometer was recalibrated for the 4.22:1 differential by Nisonger Instruments. The trip reset knob functions properly and the original type (non-electric, floor-pump operated) windshield washer system functions as designed. Additional BackgroundI purchased this excellent Elite from whom I believe to be the second owner, an Engineer living near Providence, RI. He purchased the car from a used sports car dealer in New Jersey in 1964 and drove it on trips ranging from Pittsburgh, PA to Washington, DC to Duxbury, MA. After a long-standing interest in Elite ownership and looking at several good examples, I purchased chassis number 1526 in October, 2003 and have enjoyed owning this car and driving it to shows and on winding drives through the Blue Ridge Mountains for many years. It has won many prizes in shows and was the featured car in a Washington Times newspaper article. It has been a 100% reliable, low-maintenance car and one that fully lives up to its reputation for nimble, sublime handling unlike any other road car available. This car is in outstanding cosmetic and mechanical condition and is an excellent example of one of the most beautiful, desirable, and collectable Lotus models ever made – truly a “racing car for the road.” Terms of SaleThere is a reserve price, but this car is FOR SALE and therefore it is set low. A variety of payment options are available. I am glad to answer any questions via email or telephone and the car is available for inspection. This car is available for delivery internationally - I can easily drive it to a local port (e.g., Baltimore, Maryland) for delivery to the shipper. This car is being advertised elsewhere and this auction will be withdrawn if sold. On Apr-29-10 at 18:46:38 PDT, seller added the following information: "Lotus Elite - Racing Car for the Road" Deluxe slip-cased book by Dennis Ortenburger (uniquely numbered to match chassis number 1526 and signed by author) included in the sale!