Imagine a car that transcends mere transportation, becoming a piece of living history. The 1961 Lotus Elite Series 2 you are about to discover is exactly that. This particular vehicle holds a truly unique place in automotive lore. Its first owner was none other than Soichiro Honda, the visionary founder of the Honda Motor Company.
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A Groundbreaking Design Concept
Colin Chapman’s Type 14 Lotus Elite was revolutionary, a true marvel of its time. Only a little over 1,000 examples of this groundbreaking glass fibre-monocoque car were ever built. Furthermore, only a handful of these engineering masterpieces made their way to Japan. This particular Elite, chassis number EB1321837, was one of those rare exports in 1961.
Soichiro Honda’s Personal Car
Factory records confirm this Elite was invoiced to Fuyo Trading Co Ltd on August 23, 1961. Its initial journey led it directly into the hands of Soichiro Honda. His son, Hirotoshi Honda, vividly recalled his father’s fascination with its innovative design. He considered the Elite “like an egg, a world first,” almost like a “UFO.”
Inspiring Future Automotive Design
Soichiro Honda’s deep interest in new technologies found a perfect match in the Elite. Hirotoshi even believes this very car inspired elements of the dashboard in Honda’s early mass-produced S600. This connection truly highlights the Elite’s profound impact on one of the world’s leading automotive pioneers. Its influence is undeniable.
Early Days at Suzuka Circuit
In 1962, Soichiro Honda finished construction of the famous Suzuka Circuit. The Elite quickly became a testing ground, put through its paces by legendary Japanese driver Tetsu Ikuzawa. Hirotoshi Honda himself experienced a memorable moment, becoming the first person to crash at the circuit, rolling the Elite at Spoon Curve.
A Car with a Storied Past
Finding repairs for such a rare car in Japan at that time proved challenging. Hirotoshi eventually located a small garage in central Tokyo, though the repair took considerable time. The Elite was then refinished in jet black, rejoining the family’s collection. However, after several close calls on Tokyo’s dimly lit streets, Hirotoshi convinced his father to repaint the car white.
A Legacy at Honda Technical College
Later, when Hirotoshi left the country, his father donated the Elite to the Honda Technical College. It remained there for many years, a silent testament to its unique heritage. This further solidified its historical significance within the Honda legacy. Its journey is truly remarkable.
Meticulous Frame-Off Restoration
In 1980, the disassembled Lotus found its way to the consigning owner. He then commissioned Bushell’s Restorations in Kent to undertake a complete nut-and-bolt rebuild from 2018 to 2021. This comprehensive restoration ensured all previous crash repairs were expertly remedied. The work was painstaking and thorough.
Enhanced Performance and Authenticity
During the restoration, a ZF four-speed gearbox was fitted. The original 1216-cc Coventry Climax engine was also replaced with a new one built to Super 95 specification by Rawlson Racing. The car was finished in Grand Prix White, a subtle nod to its distinguished Honda history. This choice of color carries deep meaning.
Unique Historical Markers
Notably, a sanded patch of the inner boot was left exposed to show its previous color changes. Additionally, scratches to the driver’s window frame, resulting from that early crash at Suzuka, were preserved. These subtle details offer a unique, tangible connection to the car’s fascinating past. They are true historical artifacts.
Competition Eligibility
This Lotus Elite Series 2 is more than just a showpiece. It is eligible for prestigious events like the Goodwood Revival and Le Mans Classic. This eligibility opens up incredible opportunities for its next custodian. You can truly experience its racing pedigree.
Unparalleled Provenance
Accompanied by a Lotus Classic Certificate of Vehicle Provenance, this Elite’s history is fully documented. Its fascinating early ownership by Soichiro Honda adds an incredible layer of historical significance. This truly makes it a collector’s dream.
A Truly Special Automotive Icon
The Type 14 Lotus Elite is already a truly special car, celebrated for its beautiful styling and competition pedigree. This example, however, stands even further apart. Its direct connection to Soichiro Honda, a visionary who shaped the modern automotive world, elevates it to an unparalleled status. This car is an irreplaceable piece of history.
Disclaimer:
Disclaimer: This vehicle is offered without registration papers; bidders should verify local registration requirements. Import duties and VAT may apply for UK residency.
