The Lotus Elite, or Type 14, was first shown at the 1957 Earls Court London Motor Show and, when customer deliveries commenced in 1958, it ranked as the world’s first fibreglass monocoque production car. The revolutionary body used fibreglass-reinforced plastic to form a complete monocoque tub, with structural metal only used in the steel subframe which supported the engine and front suspension, bonded into the front of the monocoque and a square-section windscreen-hoop that provided roll-over protection, together with mounting points for door hinges and jacking points for raising the car., This unique construction made the car strong, stiff and light and permitted a design which gave the vehicle great aerodynamics, with a claimed drag coefficient of just 0.29. The Elite also offered four-wheel independent suspension and disc brakes all round. The 1216 cc Coventry Climax FWE all-aluminium, in line-four engine fitted, provided ample power to endow the vehicle with sports car performance. Production ceased in 1963, by which time a little over 1,000 cars had been built., This particular Series 2 example was first registered in the UK on 01/05/1962 and was in 56 years ownership by a Gentleman from 1966 to 2022 when it was purchased personally by our Director and Marque Specialist Andy Middlehurst. Since then a full nut & bolt restoration has been carried out by ourselves. The car was stripped completely to a bare shell and received a full respray. The body shell is original and has had no previous accident damage. The engine has been fully rebuilt, with a steel crank, the original ZF gearbox has been reconditioned, carburettors rebuilt, new suspension arms, new shock absorbers, new Michelin tyres, fully refurbished wheels, all new brakes including refurbished brake calipers, new carpets, fully re-trimmed leather seats, centre dashboard and door cards as well as new chrome bumpers. All original parts have been retained were possible. The original wooden steering wheel is with the car (although not fitted), as well as the original green 'buff' logbook and toolkit. 3 months warranty, Black Full leather interior, Solid Red, We offer Road, Race and Classic cars of the highest quality. A family business established 1957., £69,995, This is an imported vehicle