1981 Lotus Eclat 2.2
Discussion
It is nearly Halloween, so why not dig up this old thread? The Eclat sits forlorn under a cover in a barn. It last ran in 2018. The Eclat can hear the sound of Italian twin cams being warmed up and cooled down nearby...
Now I am thinking of an engine rebuild or an engine swap, if I can find a good 912 unit. Then get the rear suspension done, and then a retrim the interior in a pale cloth or leather, and then a full or partial respray. Tell me to STOP buying other old cars and DO SOMETHING with this Lotus.
Now I am thinking of an engine rebuild or an engine swap, if I can find a good 912 unit. Then get the rear suspension done, and then a retrim the interior in a pale cloth or leather, and then a full or partial respray. Tell me to STOP buying other old cars and DO SOMETHING with this Lotus.
i'm a fan of the Lotus too. I've only ever driven an '86 Esprit, which I absolutely loved. It was for sale at Eagle Racing and I was only about 22 I think? Henry Pearman was such a nice guy and a real enthusiast. He was also incredibly patient and would let me wander around checking the cars they had in stock. His partner (who sadly died) would let me have occasional test drives, although they both knew I couldn't afford any of the beautiful cars they sold. It was their kindness that meant I got to experience a SWB 911 sport, an Esprit, a V12 E type and an Alfa 105 rally car. I have fond memories of every time I drove my tired old 2002 down to their farm in Uckfield.
Anyway, I digress, please revive the Lotus.
Anyway, I digress, please revive the Lotus.
In car news, a propitious omen has occurred. After looking on eBay on and off for years, I have finally found an Eclat Series Two owner's handbook. Blooming expensive, but hey.
I probably could get the car a bodge MOT, new tyres, and drive it next week in its shonky state, but it would not be reliable, I think, so I will get it done.
Research shows that all or most 912 engine parts are available in new condition. My mechanic is hoping soon to have a secure workshop space at his home in Worcestershire. He rebuilt the engine in his TVR, and I trust his skills. The plan is to get the engine and suspension given a thorough doing next year. The carbs, gearbox, and brakes seem OK. Two years in a barn may not have done the electrics any good, although the barn has mousetraps in it. Trim next, and paint.
So, hopefully on the road next autumn if not earlier, but maybe 2022 before the car is fully ready. My daughter will be eighteen years old in October 2022. I am just saying. The car may when done up be worth a lot more than the case of Chateau Palmer 2004 that I unwisely turned down when offered it for £500 in early 2005 (now worth several thousand). I had in mind that she could at eighteen have sold the case to fund a gap year trip or a car, but I foolishly did not buy it. Maybe instead an A1 Eclat to keep or sell.
(Or I could get her a book token and go for a drive.)
I probably could get the car a bodge MOT, new tyres, and drive it next week in its shonky state, but it would not be reliable, I think, so I will get it done.
Research shows that all or most 912 engine parts are available in new condition. My mechanic is hoping soon to have a secure workshop space at his home in Worcestershire. He rebuilt the engine in his TVR, and I trust his skills. The plan is to get the engine and suspension given a thorough doing next year. The carbs, gearbox, and brakes seem OK. Two years in a barn may not have done the electrics any good, although the barn has mousetraps in it. Trim next, and paint.
So, hopefully on the road next autumn if not earlier, but maybe 2022 before the car is fully ready. My daughter will be eighteen years old in October 2022. I am just saying. The car may when done up be worth a lot more than the case of Chateau Palmer 2004 that I unwisely turned down when offered it for £500 in early 2005 (now worth several thousand). I had in mind that she could at eighteen have sold the case to fund a gap year trip or a car, but I foolishly did not buy it. Maybe instead an A1 Eclat to keep or sell.
(Or I could get her a book token and go for a drive.)
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