1991 Lotus ELAN

In the 1990s, Lotus reinvented an already iconic name: The Elan. This new car was reborn, a stunningly proportioned, agile two-seater sports car - high performance coupled with exceptional handling balance. THEIR CHASSIS AND SUSPENSION OBJECTIVES “To design a sports car which delivers world beating handling and agility, a compact and practical two seater which must offer the highest levels of refinement, ride, comfort and driveability.” THEIR SOLUTION “As any suspension engineer will tell you, a stiff structure is essential if the true potential of a suspension system is to be realised. The Lotus Elan has an immensely rigid structure combining a steel backbone with composite, steel and aluminium elements, giving the strength which allows the suspension, already a Lotus patent, to function so effectively. Front wheel drive was selected for its inherent stability and ease of control. To complement it, a totally new front suspension system was conceived and designed to ensure upmost driving pleasure for the real enthusiast.” THEIR POWERTRAIN OBECTIVES “Ask a Formula 1 designer to explain his objectives and he’ll tell you that maximum power is only one element. He must also select an engine which performs as a critical part of an overall concept, with important roles to play in handling characteristics, driveability, aerodynamics, compactness and economy. That was precisely the aim with the engine for Elan. Of course, outright power was important, but low speed torque and mid-range response were equally desirable. The engine had to be compact, to al10w the designers to keep the overall car within exceptionally tight dimensions, and to keep the frontal area low to promote the desired aerodynamics. And, most important, the engine had to exude the character which has always been part of a Lotus.” THEIR SOLUTION “The chassis and body designers had already determined a radical frontal treatment which would give excellent drag figures, and this pre-determined that the engine compartment would have limited space available. Front wheel drive had been selected, and therefore the engine would have to be a compact unit, in this case to be mounted transversely. Sixteen valves were required to deliver the sort of power which the chassis demanded, and the latest engine management systems, developed with the Lotus engineers, to ensure docility and economy. Two versions were decided upon - a turbocharged version for the SE, and a normal1y aspirated engine for the standard car.” Come see this beautiful example finished in Monaco white today! Please call for an appointment. Why pay hundred of extra dollars out of your pocket to get the car safetied? Our price is all inclusive, only add HST and 59$ for new plates (or 32$ if transferring plates). Our cars come safety certified in house by our trained techs - we put our name on our cars for your peace of mind!! Shipping available to anywhere in Canada in 7-10 days!