1974 Lotus Elan +2 S130/5 review from UK and Ireland
"The smell of the leather, the wood dash, the performance and the exhaust note is intoxicating"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Headlamp vacuum pod failed.
Choke cable failed.
General comments?
My wife and I were searching for a second car. We wanted something that was sporty, could carry at least two adults and two children, was relatively cheap and would not loose or cost a small fortune to run.
We looked a Triumph Stags, but disliked the styling. We came across the Elan +2 by accident and immediately fell in love with its looks.
On the positive side it is quick, extremely comfortable (I would put it on par if not better than most modern saloons I have driven), its boot size is practical coping with the weeks family shopping. It is also a head turner and being British brings warm comments from people.
The engine in this car has had much work and is very strong. For the short period, 7 months, in out possession it has been faultless.
The gel coat is cracking, a common problem and will no doubt be an expensive repair to correct. However, as this is not structural and requires close inspection to see we will not carry out for some time.
Access the engine and transmission components are generally very good. For even the simplest of work I remove the bonnet as it is so easy.
Interior is typically 1970's British motor car. Leather and wood, the smell on entry to the cabin has to be experienced.
Driving the car is to something to be experienced, especially with the windows down so you can fully enjoy the wondeful exhaust note.
Parts availability is pretty good. Engine and transmission overhaul services are readily available and relatively cheap. Full overhaul for 5 speed gearbox is 250GBP plus parts.
Cost of ownership I would put on par with out Mercedes A-Class although I would point out that I am mechanically competent and carry out repairs myself. However, pay a little extra and get a fully restored unit and there is little to go wrong.
Technical advice is available on the Internet and the workshop manual is the best I have ever seen for a car. These are available for 10GBP on ebay-buy one.
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| 1974 - Elan +2S 130/5 1.6 DOHC Ford block, Lotus head Great value for money - guaranteed classic motoring satisfaction |
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| I want another one!! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1974 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 141000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 143000 miles |
| Previous car | Mercedes-Benz A-Class |
| Date of Entry | 8th July, 2004 |