Lotus Elan S4 SE FHC

The model on display is an SE variant in a closed-top coupé version.
It features the aesthetic and technical enhancements specific to this series, notably slightly widened rear wheel arches, centre-lock wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an upgraded interior finish with full carpet.

Vehicle details
First registered: 05/08/1968
Mileage: 26,000 km on the odometer (116,000 km original)
Exterior colour: Carnival Red (Code C211)
Interior colour: Black
Transmission: 4-speed manual gearbox (rear-wheel drive)
Engine power: 119 ch (Lotus-Ford 1.6L Twin Cam engine)

History and maintenance
First registered in the UK in the summer of 1968, this car has been exceptionally well looked after.
Its file contains a complete administrative history, including British MOT tests since 1975, as well as French inspection reports dating from its arrival in France.

A complete restoration of the car was carried out between 1991 and 1995 (photographic record provided).
The current owner, who has looked after it meticulously for nearly 20 years, acquired it in 2008 from the renowned British specialist Paul Matty Sports Cars in Birmingham.
It has since been carefully maintained and stored under cover.

Recent work
The vehicle has been subject to close monitoring and major mechanical work:

Engine & cylinder head: Overhaul of the upper engine, surface grinding/re-machining of the engine block and fitting of new valves.
Measured engine compression: 13 – 12.8 – 13.5 – 12.8 bar.
Fuel system & carburetours: Replacement of fuel hoses, adjustment/synchronisation of the carburetours and servicing of the choke.
Chassis & brakes: Replacement of handbrake linings, application of a preventative anti-rust treatment to the chassis.
Comfort & systems: Servicing of the heating system and optimisation of the starting system.

Technical specifications
Engine: 1,558 cm³ (1.6L) Lotus-Ford Twin Cam 4-cylinder
Power: 119 ch
Torque: 152 Nm at 4,600 rpm
Fuel system: Two Weber 40 DCOE 31 twin-barrel carburettors
Transmission: Rear-wheel drive, 4-speed manual gearbox
Performance: Top speed 193 km/h – 0 to 100 km/h in 9 seconds
Front suspension: Independent double wishbone with light alloy upper and lower arms, coil springs and telescopic shock absorbers
Rear suspension: ‘Chapman Strut’ arms with integrated coil-over springs and shock absorbers, with the driveshaft forming the upper arm
Braking: 4 ventilated disc brakes
Wheels & Tyres: 13-inch wheels with butterfly centre nuts, fitted with Avon Enviro 165/70 R13 tyres
Lighting: Pneumatically retractable headlights operated by vacuum

Fittings and finish
Semi-bucket sports seats and Stag-style black grained vinyl door trim
Teak-veneered dashboard with full instrument cluster
Three-spoke sports steering wheel
‘World Champion Car Constructor’ commemorative badge (1963 – 1965 – 1968) on the bodywork
Full carpet trim, including in the boot

Documentation
Standard French vehicle registration document
Roadworthiness test passed (will be retested prior to sale)
Extensive file of invoices dating back to the 1980s
Complete history of roadworthiness tests (British MOTs + French CT)
Complete photographic record documenting the restoration carried out in the 1990s
Workshop manual included

Reported defects
The car is in very good overall condition, both cosmetically and mechanically. Very slight signs of wear or minor impacts are visible on the paintwork and bumpers, consistent with its age and usage.

Location: Viewable by appointment in Salon-de-Provence
Delivery: Transport and delivery options available upon quotation.
Payment: Bank transfer only

Advisor’s note
Finding a Lotus Elan S4 SE in this original condition, with a clear provenance and a rigorously documented history, is a genuine opportunity today.
From the very first turn of the key, the mesmerising sound of the Lotus Twin Cam engine resonates like an invitation to pure driving pleasure.
Far more exclusive and refined than the typical roadsters of the era, this FHC Coupé version is the ideal choice for the connoisseur seeking to stand out and arouse curiosity at car shows.
A thrilling car, ready to hit the road with no unexpected costs, whether for Sunday drives or to compete in prestigious historic racing events.