2000 LOTUS ELISE

This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers at The Classic Sale at CarFest 2026 on Saturday the 29th of August - Sunday the 30th of August, The Wing, Silverstone Circuit, NN12 8TN. The price indicated is the lower auction estimate.

The Lotus Elise S1 Type 49 'Type R' represents a unique cross-section of collectable limited-edition rarity and high-performance aftermarket engineering

Lotus closed the twentieth century with the Elise Type 49, painted in the red, white and gold livery of the 1967 Gold Leaf Team Lotus Type 49 Grand Prix cars driven by Graham Hill and Jochen Rindt

The remarkable example we see here is offered from its sole owner. Supplied new by Bell & Colvill of Horsley in March 2000 with its original Bill of Sale present, this Elise has remained a cherished part of the family for the past 26 years

In 2005, the standard Rover engine and gearbox were removed by conversion specialists Maidstone Sports Cars and replaced with a 2.0-litre K20 VTEC engine and six-speed gearbox and reportedly output is now at 226bhp, up from the standard car's 118bhp

Uprated Nitro dampers, as well as the replacement of suspension components, were fitted at the same time

A significant cosmetic refresh was undertaken in 2012 by Lotus approved specialists which included stripping and repainting the clamshells, front access lid, sills, new doors, and a new alloy radiator at a total cost of £4,750

By dropping a Honda VTEC powerplant into a bonded aluminium chassis that weighs just over 700kg, this hybrid creation boasts a power-to-weight ratio that rivals modern supercars and at today's estimate seems remarkable value