Hey guys, I just have to share my happiness. 

A 1973 Elan Sprint (with a originally factory shipped 5 speed gearbox - 0093H) found it's way into my garage.

Bought the car from a very nice Lotus enthusiast based on a recommendation of @Tocus

It is a spanish car that got fully restored over the last years and in marvellous condition. Okay, besides the fact that somebody probably installed the wrong engine mounts on the airbox side because it keeps knocking against the body at low revs. But that earned her it's new nickname: Thumper. 😂

Me and a good friend were crazy enough to fly to Madrid and pick the car up in person. We decided to drive it all the way back to Germany (1800km!), in the evening and early mornings for the Spain part (Lotus don't like the heat as we know). 
 

First impression: What a nice ride quality! But the gearbox probably needs an overhaul, 4th gear isnt synchronised and 5th is really hard to get in.

Other than that - please cross fingers, we still have about 600km to go! 
(Passing Paris right now) ✌🏼✌🏼☺️

 

What a great adventure to start ownership! Have fun, safe journey

 

Thanks Bibs!! Just passed the toll stations while texting from the passenger seat...

so you really bought it!! great news! have a safe trip back!

 

talk to you soon ,

Great car and a great road trip to start your ownership!

I hope you made it back safe and sound.

Filip

Thanks Filip!

Yes, the only thing that suffered from the trip is my back - but not more than it would have from any other car on a 1800km drive. 😊

Now I have to wait for the Elan to be road registered for Germany, there are a couple of minor things to sort out for the famous german TÜV to be happy. (Reverse gear light switch...)

I was hoping to do a little convoy with it to the oldtimer grandprix at the Ring in about two weeks, but the odds are against it in terms of timing.

But oh what a satisfying driving experience and ... 126bhp out of a 1.6L in 1973 - that must have been one of the highest bhp per litre at the time. 

Great looking car.

Always loved the Elan and maybe I will find one someday.

I think the Elan is one of the more reliable Lotus's.  

I had a chance to take her out on a surprising mild saturday this weekend in January... It's unfortunately just the second time after getting her road registered in Germany. 

(Proper number plate holders to be mounted soon...)

Hi @hml_xy

Apologies if it sounds indiscreet, but your post (and picture) about the Evora GT430 made me recall this car. Would you mind sharing an update of your experience with your Elan?  Thanks!