1958 Lotus Seven Coventry Climax
The Lotus Seven is, with exception to the Mini Cooper, the most iconic and instantly recognizable automotive design to come out of the United Kingdom. The Seven took Lotus’ motif of lightweight sports cars and took it to an extreme only seen on the race track. At a svelte 1,200 lbs. the Seven has less weight to push around that any of its road-going peers and, helped by an advanced fully independent suspension setup, has world-famous handling characteristics. Even the most basic of Sevens are a joy to drive but, with low power output and drum brakes on all for corners, leave a space in the Seven lineup that had to be filled. The 1,098cc Coventry Climax FWA, on the other hand, truly brings this car to life. The more powerful FWA “fire pump” engine sends the little lotus rocketing forward at a blistering pace, pushing 130 horsepower in an incredibly lightweight package.
This 1958 Series 1 has everything all of the most desirable Seven parts available. It is equipped with the highly desirable Stage III Coventry Climax FWA engine, a Taylor straight-cut synchromesh transmission, Accusump oil accumulator, Lotus 18 Alfin front brakes, Tilton racing clutch, a Healey Sprite rear end with LX LS and a 4.88:1 ratio, and a removable steering wheel for easy entry/exit. It was modified by a marque specialist to accommodate a driver of 6’ 2” by lowering the driver’s seat slightly and adjusting the pedal box, though it is a very comfortable driving position for those of smaller stature as well. The serial number has been verified with the Lotus Historical Society and has many years of VSCCA logbooks available. It has a recorded lap time around Lime Rock Park of 1 minute and 7 seconds. Though prepared as a racing car, this Lotus retains all necessary equipment for street registration and is currently equipped it street tires for a more enjoyable ride on public roads. Driving this wonderfully prepared Lotus Seven is its own slice of driving nirvana, with few other experiences able to compete with just how connected the driver feels with the vehicle and the road. It is ready for whatever roads lay ahead, whether it be on track or on the street. Both a new cloth and aluminum tonneau are included with the sale.
This vehicle has been sold!
