Been a long while since I have actually had personal exposure to an Elan, but lots of extended touring in my ‘69 Plus 2.
Pretty much agree with what everyone else has said.
Truth be known, with the stock Federal Strombergs and four speed I didn’t really like the Plus 2 for extended touring, although I drove the car that way half way across Canada. The car in modern conditions was underpowered for the weight, and with the 3.78 final drive revved too high at highway speed to be ideal.
An MT-75 with overdrive fifth helped with the revs, but then wasn’t sufficiently powerful in fifth to accelerate. Made even worse with a change to 3.55 final drive. Still, I drove the car in this configuration from Alberta to Florida without any major issues.
After the Florida trip I took a detour to Esprit V8 ownership, which certainly answered any concerns with power.
My Plus 2 with more power is perfect now. The engine is a tall block TC, which turns out to be a pretty expensive way to get the 170 HP the car deserves.
Long story short, given you are in the UK and what you are after, I would definitely check out a Spyder Zetec. Those cars are great tourers. I would add in a period correct sunroof, but that’s just me. As mentioned the cabin noise level is not that much louder with the windows or sunroof open, although it is not ‘80’s vintage quiet by any means. Definitely try for a five speed model, which are very rare our side of the pond.
If realistic with it’s power limitations the Plus 2 is great. Handling, ride, brakes, luggage space, etc. all great. Comfortable for larger folks, the wider pedal box, leg room and egress the biggest difference to the Elan. When locked the car is very secure; took an auto club guy a long time to get the car open for me last summer.
I would probably prefer an Alfa GTV if comparing to the commonly available Federal Plus 2 four speed over here.
Just my thoughts.