The Lotus Elan Type 26 is the original Lotus Elan Series 1 (S1) and Series 2 (S2), produced between 1962 and 1966. It was the first iteration of the legendary Elan lineup and marked a significant shift in sports car design for Lotus, emphasizing lightness, agility, and advanced engineering.
| Lotus Type 26 | Years |
|---|---|
| Series 1 (1500 and 1600) | 1962 – 1964 |
| Series 2 (S2 and S2 SE) | 1964 – 1966 |
| 26R | List Years |
Body Style
The Type 26 featured a sleek fiberglass body mounted on a steel backbone chassis. Initially, It was only a two-seater convertible or drophead coupe (DHC). A removable hardtop was available as an accessory for those who wanted a more enclosed cabin.
Engine and Performance
The Elan Type 26 was powered by a 1.6-liter Ford Kent-based twin-cam inline-4 engine, modified by Lotus to produce around 105 horsepower in the Series 1 and slightly more in the Series 2. With a curb weight of just 1,500 lbs (680 kg) or less, the Type 26 offered 0-60 mph speeds in ~7-8 seconds. The Elan was known for its exceptional handling due to its lightweight design and advanced suspension.
Advanced Engineering
The Type 26 used a revolutionary steel backbone chassis, which was light yet provided excellent rigidity. The backbone chassis supported fully independent suspension with coil springs and wishbones at all four corners. The rack-and-pinion steering delivered sharp and precise handling, and the Elan was initially equipped with disc brakes at the front and drums at the rear (upgraded to discs all around in later Series 2 models).
Series Differences
Series 1 (1962–1964):
- The original version, known for its purity of design and minimalism.
- Lighter and simpler, but less refined in terms of interior comfort and build quality.
Series 2 (1964–1966):
- Introduced minor refinements, including improved interior trim, revised taillights, and a few upgrades for reliability and usability.
- A hardtop was offered as an option.
Legacy
The Type 26 established Lotus as a leader in small, lightweight sports cars. It was praised for its handling, performance, and innovative engineering, setting a template for later Elans. Its influence extended to modern cars, inspiring models like the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Today, the Type 26 is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to its historical significance, driving dynamics, and timeless design.