The Lotus Elan Type 36 refers to the Fixed-Head Coupe (FHC) version of the Lotus Elan, produced between 1965 and 1973. It is the closed-roof counterpart to the Type 45 (Drophead Coupe), sharing much of the same mechanical underpinnings and lightweight ethos.
| Lotus Type 36 Coupe | |
|---|---|
| Series 3 (S3 and S3 SE) | 1966 – 1968 |
| Series 4 (S4 and S4 SE) | 1968 – 1971 |
| Sprint | 1971 – 1973 |
Body Style
Fixed-Head Coupe (FHC): The Type 36 had a sleek and aerodynamically styled fiberglass body with a permanent roof. This made it stiffer and quieter than the open-top Type 45. The coupe design was also more suited for long-distance touring, offering better weather protection and reduced cabin noise.
Engine and Performance
The engine was the same 1.6-liter twin-cam inline-4 engine used across the Elan range, producing around 105–115 horsepower depending on the specification.
Performance was great thanks to its light weight (~1,500 lbs or 680 kg), the Type 36 had excellent handling and acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in approximately 7 seconds.
Notable Features
The Type 36 incorporated a longer rear body section compared to earlier Series 2 Elans, which improved aerodynamics and trunk space.
Interior and Refinements
The Type 36 offered a more refined and comfortable interior compared to earlier Elans, featuring:
- Better sound insulation.
- Improved dashboard and instrumentation.
- Enhanced build quality, addressing criticisms of the earlier models.
Legacy
The Type 36 is admired for its balance between the practicality of a fixed roof and the performance Lotus was known for. It offered an excellent driving experience, particularly for those who preferred a coupe over a convertible.
While it is less common than the Type 45, the Type 36 has a dedicated following among enthusiasts and collectors, especially given its significance in Lotus’s history as a quintessential lightweight sports car.