The Lotus Elan 26R, introduced in 1964, was the racing variant of the already celebrated Lotus Elan, designed to dominate the track with its lightweight construction and exceptional handling. Based on the Elan S1 and S2, the 26R featured extensive modifications for competition, including a reinforced chassis, revised suspension geometry, and lighter fiberglass body panels. Powered by a high-performance version of the 1.6-liter twin-cam engine, it delivered increased power to complement its track-focused agility. Further enhancements, such as wider wheels, upgraded brakes, and adjustable dampers, made the 26R a formidable contender in motorsport. With its blend of precision engineering and racing pedigree, the Lotus Elan 26R remains a symbol of Colin Chapman’s commitment to performance through lightness and innovation.
History
The Lotus Elan 26R is an enduring icon in the world of motorsport, representing the pinnacle of the original Lotus Elan’s performance and racing potential. Born from Colin Chapman’s philosophy of “simplify, then add lightness,” the 26R was a purpose-built race car that built upon the solid foundation of the Lotus Elan Series 1 and Series 2, with a focus on competitive success.
The Lotus Elan was first introduced in 1962 as a lightweight, nimble sports car featuring a fiberglass body over a steel backbone chassis. It was powered by the Ford-based Lotus Twin Cam engine, offering a blend of reliability and performance. Its independent suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and perfect weight distribution made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
However, Colin Chapman and his team at Lotus had greater ambitions for the Elan. The car’s inherent agility and lightweight design made it an ideal candidate for racing. To this end, Lotus introduced the 26R in 1964 as a factory-prepared competition variant of the Elan. The name “26R” reflected its derivation from the Elan Series 1 and Series 2 models, which were designated Type 26.
The 26R was engineered for racing, with numerous upgrades to enhance its performance on the track. These included:
Key Features
The 26R was engineered for racing, with numerous upgrades to enhance its performance on the track. These included:
- Lightweight Construction: While the standard Elan was already lightweight, the 26R took this to another level. It featured thinner fiberglass body panels, and many non-essential components were removed or replaced with lighter alternatives.
- Reinforced Chassis: The backbone chassis was strengthened to cope with the increased loads of racing.
- Improved Suspension: The 26R was fitted with adjustable suspension components, including rose joints and upgraded springs and dampers, for better handling and durability.
- Enhanced Braking: The car featured larger Girling disc brakes with aluminum calipers, providing better stopping power.
- High-Performance Engine: The Lotus Twin Cam engine was tuned to produce significantly more power, with outputs ranging from 140 to 170 horsepower, depending on the specification and tuning.
- Wide Wheels and Tires: Wider magnesium alloy wheels allowed for improved grip and cornering stability.
- Aerodynamic Tweaks: The car often sported aerodynamic enhancements, such as flared wheel arches, to accommodate the wider tires.
Elan Homologation Application
The application is Elan Homologation Application
Production Notes
Unit Numbers
Engines
Options
Performance Data
Technical Data
| production years | 1964 – 1966 |
| engine | Lotus 2731E Inline-4 |
| position | Front, Longitudinal |
| aspiration | Natural |
| ignition | Lucas 25D4 Distributor |
| block material | Cast-Iron w/Aluminum Cylinder Head |
| valvetrain | Chain Driven DOHC, 2 Valves per Cyl |
| fuel feed | 2 Weber DCOE/2 Sidedraft Carburettor |
| displacement | 1588 cc / 96.91 in³ |
| bore | 82.6 mm / 3.3 in |
| stroke | 72.8 mm / 2.9 in |
| body / frame | Monocoque Fiberglass Body over Pressed Steel Chassis |
| driven wheels | RWD |
| wheel type | Knock-off Steel Discs |
| front tires | 5.20-13 Dunlop SP 41 |
| rear tires | 5.20-13 Dunlop SP 41 |
| front brakes | Girling Discs |
| rear brakes | Girling Discs |
| front wheels | F 33.0 x 11.4 cm / 13 x 4.5 in |
| rear wheels | R 33.0 x 11.4 cm / 13 x 4.5 in |
| steering | Triumph Rack & Pinion |
| f suspension | Wishbones w/Coil Springs, Anti-Sway Bar |
| r suspension | Half Shafts w/Lateral Link, Coil Springs, Anti-Sway Bar |
| curb weight | 600 kg / 1323 lbs |
| weight distro | 48 % / 52 % |
| wheelbase | 2133 mm / 84 in |
| front track | 1193 mm / 47 in |
| rear track | 1193 mm / 47 in |
| length | 3683 mm / 145 in |
| width | 1422 mm / 56 in |
| height | 1168 mm / 46 in |
| transmission | Ford 4-Speed Manual |
| tran clutch | 8.5-Inch Dry Plate |
| gear ratios | 2.92:1, 2.51:1, 1.64:1, 1.00:1 |
| fuel capacity | 45.42 litres or 12 gal. |
Library Items
Advertisements
See all Lotus Elan Advertisements
Brochures
See all Lotus Elan Brochures
Magazines
See all Lotus Elan Magazine Articles
Memorabilia
See all Lotus Elan Memorabilia
Racing Success
The Lotus Elan 26R quickly proved itself as a formidable competitor in motorsport. It excelled in both amateur and professional racing series, particularly in GT and sports car classes. Its lightweight construction, agile handling, and powerful engine allowed it to outperform many larger and more powerful rivals.
Privateers and professional teams alike found success with the 26R in events such as:
- British national racing championships
- European GT races
- Endurance events, including the Nürburgring 500km and Spa-Francorchamps
The car’s success on the track also helped cement the reputation of Lotus as a leader in innovative, performance-focused engineering.