1962 Lotus Elite Series 2 Coupé
Revolutionary fiberglass monocoque construction made this British sports car one of the most technically advanced vehicles of its time. Colin Chapman’s innovative stressed-skin design eliminated the need for a traditional chassis, creating a lightweight structure that weighed just 1,410 pounds (640 kg).
The elegant bodywork, penned by Peter Kirwan-Taylor with input from aerodynamicist Frank Costin, achieved a remarkably low drag coefficient of 0.29. Series 2 models featured improved construction by Bristol Aircraft Company and revised rear suspension with triangulated wishbones replacing the original radius arms.
Power came from a 1,216cc Coventry Climax FWE inline-four engine producing between 75 and 85 horsepower depending on specification. Special Equipment models offered up to 105 horsepower with twin carburetors and close-ratio ZF transmissions.
Despite financial losses on each car built, the Elite achieved remarkable racing success, winning its class at Le Mans six consecutive years. Production totaled approximately 1,030 units from 1957 to 1963.
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