’69 Lotus Europa S2

When I was a kid, I’d often walk past the train station in Bedford, I must have been about 14-15 at the time, so mid 80’s, I always remember seeing a Lotus Europa, tarpaulin covered, up on bricks of course, already in a sad state of repair. A love hate car with the ‘breadvan’ rear and high buttresses, but I was firmly in the love camp.

Following my brief dalliance with the Esprits, I fully embraced the chance to buy a Europa in Dubai when one came up. The first one I’d seen and the only one here I think. So eager was I that I was not put off by the fact it was literally cling-wrapped and on the top shelf in a scrapyard, one that didn’t event specialize in whole cars! But it was a Lotus, what could go wrong.

After precariously lowering it down on a forklift I had a look and for once walked away to consider – for at least a day before taking the plunge. Then off it went it the usual AAA.

A bit of detail, it is a 1969 Series 2 Type 65 – so federalized for the US market, that means it runs a slightly larger Renault engine 1565cc with a 4 speed, the front headlights are slightly higher and this one has had the ‘nacelle’ indicators removed to look more like a Series 1. The most distinctive feature is of course the higher buttresses on the rear. Also of course it is low, very, very low, just 42.5 inches at standard height, lower than even the Esprit.

At AAA we’ve started with the usual overhaul, mechanical first, it already had an uprated Weber carb and intake, suspension refreshed with new shocks etc. Doors were re-hung, and then on to paint. I opted for a Renault yellow, slightly duskier than the original Lotus one. I’m massively simplifying this as loads more work has had to be done.

New interior, leather and carpets throughout. The dash was an issue to replace and being impatient I’ve gone of a custom made, body-coloured yellow panel. Also complemented it with some yellow/black plaid seat inserts and accents. Finally, some fresh tyres and I opted to Minilite wheels to replace the mismatching pairs on the car.

We are just in the final assembly and wiring phase, so I hope to get it out on the streets soon – I’ve even been losing some weight so I can try and retain some dignity getting in and out – but I doubt it’ll make much difference, this is definitely a ‘hands and knees’ on exit car.

Some progress…