1971 Lotus Elan Sprint DHC

This Lotus Elan Sprint DHC is just as it was when new back in 1971, save for an aftermarket chassis upgrade. Its level of originality is what makes it so desirable, according to the vendor, Barry Ely Sports Cars.

“This car left the factory as a Sprint DHC in Lotus yellow over white, and that’s what it still is today,” says Barry Ely, the company owner. “It is as it should be and not a made-up car in any way. There are a lot of FHCs with the roofs cut off out there masquerading as DHCs, but they are not worth the same sort of money.

“It is a nice period-correct car with the original Colin Chapman Signature steering wheel, which is an important detail on these cars. All the numbers match up and it also comes with a certificate of provenance from Lotus Cars.

“Originality is the key to value with Elans – this one would be worth more if it was on an Lotus chassis rather than a Spyder updated one. If it were, it would probably have
flown out the door.”

“The car drives beautifully, just as an Elan should,” adds Ely. “A pal of mine is restoring a Sprint and had a go in this one when we took it to a show. He said that if his drives as well as this when it is finished, he’ll be over the moon.”

The K-reg car has 54,000 miles on the clock, which is believed to be genuine, and has been recommissioned and serviced by Barry Ely Sports Cars. The asking price is £44,950.

Barry Ely Sports Cars, Maldon, Essex
Tel: 01621 330285, barryelysportscars.co.uk