Lot details

Year: 1986
Make: Lotus
Model: Elan M100 Prototype
Registration: n/a
Chassis No: n/a
Engine No: n/a
Mileage: n/a
•: Original M100 prototype
•: Supplied with original copy of CAR magazine feature
•: A real piece of Lotus history with provenance

In 1988 Car magazine were amongst the first to report that Lotus had begun production on its all-new Elan, the car had been long in the mindset of Lotus who wanted to create a modern sports car that would set the world talking again about the British sportscar manufacturer and thus Peter Stevens Lotus chief stylist was commissioned with the project. As found in the detailed article in CAR Stevens expressed that the design came naturally, the initial concept was received very well and unlike some designs it was not a struggle to meet the brief. When the clay model at 7/8 scale was created it was wheeled out onto the grass outside the executive offices and everyone had a chance to look around, Mike Kimberley took a seat and declared the design 'bloody marvellous' after this Stevens whisked it away for a full-size presentation model we have on offer here.

Fast forward nearly four decades and in a barn in Cornwall the original M100 prototype is hidden under a tarpaulin, previosly in the ownership of former Lotus employee (photographed with the car in CAR magazine) and with the original copy of CAR magazine with the prototype featured and photos of the Lotus management. Today it is very much as it would have been back in 1986 when it was revealed to Lotus board members, the trim, panels and dash are all in very good order with some patina but not showing much damage given its construction and years in storage. It rolls on its 14-inch alloy wheels and from a distance could be the finished article, but this is in reality a real piece of Lotus history with provenance. A prototype for a collection, our website has copies of the original CAR magazine write up which provide you with a real insight into the M100 prototype and it is a pleasure to be able to offer this piece of British sports car history. Consigned by Mathew Priddy

Guide Price £20,000-£30,000