Best way to get educated and find an Elan?
Posted: Sun Jun 24, 2018 5:39 am
I've been lusting after an Elan for years and am finally at a point where I can shop seriously.
My main priority is the driving experience -- I'm not looking for a concours-level vehicle. I'm fine with modifications, especially if they improve reliability and drivability. Not a stickler about a perfect appearance, and I'd even consider a car with a swapped engine. Also not picky about any specific model beyond LHD and DHC.
I am, however, worried about overlooking something and ending up with a car that's missing some kind of ridiculously expensive or hard-to-find trim piece or interior part. Or a car that's many hours and thousands of dollars away from being drivable due to something I overlooked.
Any advice about things I should look for beyond the obvious (i.e. chassis cracking, fiberglass work, donuts, electrical issues)?
Any advice on places to look besides the obvious too? Are Hemmings/eBay/BaT the best places to find these? Should I avoid dealerships? I've bought and sold old Porsches and BMWs before, but Lotus -- especially the Elan -- seems like a much different ball of wax.
For example, I was looking at this the other day (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Elan-S4/162892 ... SwjSJae6Cr)...
My main priority is the driving experience -- I'm not looking for a concours-level vehicle. I'm fine with modifications, especially if they improve reliability and drivability. Not a stickler about a perfect appearance, and I'd even consider a car with a swapped engine. Also not picky about any specific model beyond LHD and DHC.
I am, however, worried about overlooking something and ending up with a car that's missing some kind of ridiculously expensive or hard-to-find trim piece or interior part. Or a car that's many hours and thousands of dollars away from being drivable due to something I overlooked.
Any advice about things I should look for beyond the obvious (i.e. chassis cracking, fiberglass work, donuts, electrical issues)?
Any advice on places to look besides the obvious too? Are Hemmings/eBay/BaT the best places to find these? Should I avoid dealerships? I've bought and sold old Porsches and BMWs before, but Lotus -- especially the Elan -- seems like a much different ball of wax.
For example, I was looking at this the other day (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Elan-S4/162892 ... SwjSJae6Cr)...