If there was one word that could sum-up Lotus as an Automobile it would have to be "minimalist". These British born creations broke all the rules, set new standards and excelled in ways sports and racing cars never had done before. The endless endeavor to make cars lighter and faster was the keystone of how Lotus made it success on the race track, and only then how it came to be on the road. The Europe embodies much racing technology of its day, and was a first in many ways for Lotus and the car world when first produced. From 1966 to 1975 there were 4 different series produced, but one stands out at the top in terms of performance and the ultimate in what the Europa has to offer. The Europa Twin Cam Special embodies a pure driver's experience, where form follows function and the purity of engineering is at its height.
The 1973 Lotus Europa Twin Cam Special offered through LBI is a very well cared for example. While 100% of the history is not known on this particular car, chassis # 73104079R; it is evident through inspection and available history that this car is extremely well sorted and up to date. More recently (past 10 years) this car was formerly in the possession of Florida sports car dealer, Wire Wheel. While there the car did receive a very thorough total mechanical overhaul, and freshened cosmetics.
The numbers matching engine, with Big Valve head was completely rebuilt by Twin Cam Specialties (TCS), and was done to the highest standards for power and reliability. The build included rebuilt twin Strombergs carbs, rebuilt 4-speed transaxle, Electronic Ignition, headers, alloy alternator pulley, ITG air filter, and an electric fuel pump upgrade with regulator. When reassembled it also received Koni Shocks, a stainless steel exhaust, Pirelli P400's, new brakes, and all suspension components tended to.
Cosmetically it received correct yellow paint, new dash wood and interior appointments as needed. Today the car shows superbly with no major stress cracks common to these cars. The fiberglass is extremely straight, the doors fit better than any we have seen. All gaps are great for a Lotus, and the front trunk is very tidy. There is no sign anywhere of any previous accident damage or major body work. The interior is very nice with all black leather, and is quite comfortable with a new steering wheel as well. On the inside everything can be found in working order, all gauges, switches etc... work as expected. The door jams are clean, and the glass original and free of any blemishes. The chrome presents nicely but is showing its age in a few spots.
Turning the key starts it easily, with great oil pressure of 50 pounds and holding good temperature when fully warmed up. Power through the range is impressive, and weighing in at just 1,500 pounds this car is very fast, handles extremely well and stops quickly. We have no complaints about performance or the mechanical ability, it's superb.
All things considered this is an excellent opportunity for any enthusiast or collector looking for a very up to date and well tended to Europa Twin Cam Special. Offered with full workshop manuals and documentation, we invite those interested to please inquire with any additional questions.
