The Lotus M100 Elan, launched in 1989, was a two-seater, convertible sportscar designed by Lotus and built with the development and testing resources of General Motors. Around 35 million was invested in its development, more than any other car in Lotus history. Its design, featuring a fibreglass composite body over a rigid steel monocoque chassis, was true to Lotus founder Colin Chapman's original philosophy of achieving performance through lightweight. The name 'Elan' connected the car with its 1960s ancestor, the original Lotus Elan. Conceived as a mass-market car and in particular one that would appeal to US buyers. Consequently, Lotus put an enormous effort into testing the car; over a two-year period 19 crash cars and 42 development vehicles were built, logging nearly a million test miles in locations from Arizona to the Arctic. The Elan was driven at racing speeds for 24 hours around the track at Snetterton. Finally, each new car was test-driven for around 30 miles at the Lotus Hethel factory to check for any manufacturing defects before being shipped to dealers.

First registered 31st March 1993 to its only owner and father of our vendor, this stunning and original UK supplied M100 Elan is finished in metallic blue with a grey leather trim with cloth inserts and has covered under 18,000 miles from new. Having always been garaged and only used on sunny days, the car has recently been treated to a full service including new cambelt and light recommissioning with Lotus specialists Hofmann's of Henley to the tune of circa £3,000. Hofmann's also completed the MoT test certificate which is valid until August 2025 and commented that the car was spotless but for one or two minor stone chips. Described by our vendor as staggeringly original, this is a genuine collector's example. Offered with a detailed history file, original handbook and stamped service booklet, this sprightly modern classic will put a smile on the face of all who drive her. Consigned by Mathew Priddy

Lot details
Year: 1993
Make: Lotus
Model: Elan
Registration: K2 MOL
Chassis No: SCC100ZT1NHD16083
Engine No: 155512
Mileage: 17,650

* One owner from new
* Recently serviced