The Elan
Launched in 1967 as a slightly longer Elan, it could accommodate two small children in the back.
Intended to help move the company image up market, it had the usual cost limitations imposed upon it. Parts were used from other manufacturers, front bumper from an Anglia, windscreen – Ford Classic Capri, heater from a Cortina and as on the Elan the steering rack and front suspension were triumph based.
The car took another move upmarket when it was the first ever Lotus to be sold only fully assembled.
Despite being heavier than the original Elan, the plus 2 gained from its more aerodynamic look, and the top speed remained the same.
The final models, the 130’s, was developing 126bhp and had a 5 speed gearbox added, something always considered as missing on the earlier models.
Production finished in 1975, after 3,300 cars had been built.