Club to mark Elan's big 50

Although largely overlooked by the major historic festivals, the 50th anniversary of the Lotus Elan will be marked by the Classic Sports Car Club at two events this summer.

First introduced by Colin Chapman in 1962, around 17,000 examples of the original Elan and its subsequent 2+2 incarnation were built before production ceased in 1975. Up to 100 of the bespoke racing version, the 26R, were produced between 1964 and ’66.

Now, to mark half a century of Elans, two 30-minute all-Elan races will be held at Brands Hatch (August 18/19) during the Lotus Festival and at Donington Park on September 15/16.