Rare 1974 Lotus Europa Twin cam Big valve Special - 5 speed - extremely original

In 1967 Lotus started production of the Europa (Type 46)with a 82 bhp Renault engineand a 4-speed gearbox.Always intended byColin Chapmanas as sports racer to succeed the Lotus 7,However it becameseriouslycompetitive just in 1971, ith theintroduction of theEuropatype 74featuring the famous Lotus -FordDOHCrace oriented engine developing 105 hp.
The car presentedhere features the latest developmentof the Europa- the" big valve" engine producing 126 bhp (not a Cosworth), nd the original factory optional 5 speed gearbox(Type 365).This layout is identical to the Europa JPS (honoring Lotus's F1 world championship title)without thecigarettemanufacturer's colorscheme.
These cars are regarded as one of the besthandlingsports cars ever built, nd rightfully so - it'sextremelylight (740kg -1631lb), owever it is superrigid, orners like aracer but balances a surprisingly nice ride. It is said to do 0-60 in well under 6 seconds which isincredible for it's time. The famous Lotus race like, nd perfectly balancedsuspensiontruly makes it a sensation to drive.
The car presented here it absolutely original. A real time bubble. Never repainted or retrimmed. Still have the original gold body stickers. Stored in a dry and climate controlled storage for many years.I just got it out of the storage, nstalled a new battery and checked it at a specialist. The Big Valve engine is in great shape, howing goodcompression in all fourcylinders. it wastuned and the carb rebuilt. The Type 365 gearbox shifts well.Due to lack of use, he clutch got stuck and needs replacing. There might be other Little issues due to the Europa's long storage period, ut the famous engine and gearbox are in good shape.Frame is rust free, he original factory paint still shines but it's 41 year old - so as expected it is cracked. Body is great- straight and accidentfree. The original interior can use somewood lacquer on the dash and some tucking in ofupholstery, ut it isabsolutelycomplete and intact.
With little work it can drive again, nd with a little more work it's potentially a great show stopper.
It's a great investment too- EuropaSpecialsare rapidlyincreasing in value. That's why not many people areselling.I need to let mine go. Really love it but it needs a good home.It is being sold as is but you are very welcometo come and check it out in person.