1974 Lotus Elan +2S 130/5 |

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1974 Lotus Elan +2S 130/5

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Mileage~14,253 on clock
Transmission5-Speed Manual
Engine1.6-Litre
LocationSpalding, Lincolnshire

AUCTION CLOSED

1974 Lotus Elan +2S 130/5

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Introduction

Ashley Dawson

Professional Consigner

The Lotus Elan +2S 130/5 represents one of the finest evolutions of Colin Chapman’s lightweight philosophy, a beautifully balanced grand tourer.

As the final and most desirable iteration of the +2 range, the 130/5 introduced the five-speed gearbox, improved refinement, and the legendary Big-Valve twin-cam engine, making it the ultimate specification for enthusiasts, offering elegance, performance, and genuine everyday usability.

With its sweeping body lines, low-slung stance, and unmistakable Lotus engineering, the +2S 130/5 has become increasingly sought after as collectors recognise just how special these cars are. Lighter than its contemporaries and powered by one of Britain’s most charismatic engines, it delivers a uniquely involving driving experience. One that blends delicacy, agility, and genuine pace.

Coming to market from ~5.5 years with our vendor, a classic car enthusiast who has cherished the car during his custodianship, this example presents beautifully throughout. Finished in a striking blue over cream interior with polished wood fascia, it shows exactly why the +2S 130/5 has earned its place as one of Lotus’s most collectible grand tourers. We believe the car was built in 1973 but was registered later in 1974, but we cannot confirm this.

This listing was written from information supplied by Ashley after meeting Paul the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

It’s been a pleasure to own - now it’s time for someone else to enjoy it.

Paul has carefully enjoyed the Elan during his ownership, using it sparingly and keeping it garage stored when not in use.

The car has been maintained to a very good standard and benefits from thoughtful upkeep, ensuring the Lotus remains both mechanically strong and visually impressive. Paul is now parting with the car to make space for another classic - he is hoping for it to go to an owner who will appreciate and continue its story.

Paul will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Paul

Vehicle Owner

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Exterior
Interior
Mechanics
History
All Images

EXTERIOR VIDEO

Exterior

The exterior of this Lotus Elan +2S 130/5 presents beautifully, finished in an elegant and period-correct blue that highlights the sculpted fibreglass body.

Wheels and Tyres

The car sits on its attractive Lotus alloy wheels, presented in great condition with clean spokes and bright centres.

They are fitted with quality Pirelli Cinturato P4 tyres, showing good tread and no visible cracking, ready for continued use.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Bodywork

The fibreglass body appears straight and well-kept throughout, with no visible stress cracks or notable imperfections in the panels. Panel gaps are very respectable for a hand-built Lotus, and doors, bonnet, and boot all open and close correctly

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The blue paintwork presents to a high standard with a deep gloss and excellent reflections. The roof is silver with metal flake which in the sun looks stunning.

Under direct light it shows strong consistency across the body, with only minor age-related marks as expected for a well-cared-for classic. Overall, it remains striking and extremely presentable.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The glass is clear with no obvious chips or scratches.

Its classic chrome details, slim bumpers, and distinctive proportions all contribute to the unmistakable Lotus character. The brightwork, bumper chrome, and window trims all present well with only light patina.

Headlights, indicators, and lenses appear clean and free from damage.

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INTERIOR VIDEO

Interior

Inside, the Elan +2S 130/5 offers a wonderfully classic British sports car atmosphere — a mix of leatherette, varnished wood, and purposeful instrumentation.

Seats and Carpets

The cream leatherette seats remain in lovely condition, with only gentle creasing as expected from light use. The leatherette retains a soft feel and good colour throughout.

Carpets appear clean, well-fitted, and without excessive wear.

Dashboard

The polished wooden dash is a highlight of the cabin, presenting rich colour and glossy finish.

All dials are clear, bright, and well-seated, with the switchgear showing only minor age-related marking.

The overall presentation is elegant and very period-correct.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The classic three-spoke steering wheel presents well, retaining its textured rim and clean spokes.

The wooden gear knob and surrounding console trim also show only light, honest wear, completing a very charming interior environment.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO

Mechanics

Fitted with the coveted 1.6-litre Lotus Big-Valve twin-cam engine and rare five-speed gearbox, this +2S 130/5 offers the most desirable mechanical specification in the Elan range.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine bay presents very well, showing tidy hoses, clean components, and well-maintained ancillaries. The Big-Valve engine starts readily, settles into a smooth idle, and pulls strongly through the rev range. Paul tells us it has a Toni Thompson big bore stainless exhaust and has had a cooling system upgrade with a larger aluminium radiator and twin fans, the original refurbished radiator and mounts comes with the car.

The five-speed gearbox, the key upgrade of the 130/5 shifts cleanly and transforms the Elan into a genuinely usable grand tourer.

Suspension and Brakes

The suspension components look virtually new; the springs and bushes don’t appear to have bedded in at all.

The car rides with a light yet confident feel, perfectly capturing that classic Lotus balance.

Brakes feel firm and progressive, offering good confidence on the road.

The Drive

The Elan remains one of the most enjoyable classic British sports cars to drive, light steering, sharp throttle response, and a wonderfully communicative chassis.

On the road, this example feels eager, balanced, and true to Chapman’s ethos of “simplify, then add lightness.”

Paul reported no issues at the time of the visit.

Electrics and Other

Paul reports all gauges, switches, and electrical items to be in good working order, as far as he is aware.

Lighting, fans, and instruments behaved as expected, completing a reassuring mechanical picture.

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History and Paperwork

This Lotus Elan +2S 130/5 comes with a reassuring folder of history, reflecting careful ownership and consistent maintenance.

The documentation includes invoices, previous MOTs, and various records charting upkeep and mechanical attention over the years. The car has clearly been maintained with enthusiasm and respect for originality, ensuring it performs as a +2S 130/5 should. With steady ownership and clear evidence of expenditure, its history supports the excellent condition observed today.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History

Date	Type	Mileage
11.03.2025	MOT	13,787
19.10.2022	MOT	12,552
12.04.1999	MOT	12,523
17.06.1996	MOT	11,928
26.05.1995	MOT	11,799
26.05.1994	MOT	11,406
04.06.1993	MOT	95,163
17.07.1992	MOT	62,585
16.07.1991	MOT	56,753
18.07.1990	MOT	53,693
08.06.1989	MOT	52,236
03.06.1988	MOT	51,088
07.06.1987	MOT	48,294
15.07.1983	MOT	47,837
12.07.1982	MOT	44,493
13.07.1981	MOT	37,320
12.06.1979	MOT	35,800
17.01.1978	MOT	32,211

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Key Details

ModelElan +2s
TransmissionManual
Reg. Date20.02.1974
CC1558
Mileage~14,253 On Clock
ColourBlue
Interior ColourBeige
Interior TrimLeatherette
Chassis #73121798L
Engine #P31427
MOTYes - Exp 10.03.26 (no advisories)
MOT ExemptYes
Road Tax ExemptYes
HPi ClearYes - All Clear
Former Keepers4
Tyre BrandPirelli
LHD or RHDRHD
VisitedYes
Sale TypePrivate
Owned~5 Years, 5 months
Key FeatureCondition
Vehicle RegistrationAWA 775M
Driver’s SideRight
Fuel TypePetrol
Body TypeCoupe
Auction ID3301

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Vehicle Location

Spalding, Lincolnshire

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information or let us know if you want to be notified when a similar car comes to market.

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Seller : Adam Purrier - Trade Classics

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5 Comments

Paul

5 months ago

Hi thanks for your message no leaks of any sort thanks

Chaskins

5 months ago

Hi Paul, please could you advise if the car has any oil or other fluid leaks at all?

Paul

5 months ago

Ps ,no crazing at all thanks

Paul

5 months ago

Hi thanks for your interest the is no micro blistering what so ever the gel coat was professionally applied during the restoration thanks Paul

frankdoherty

5 months ago

Hi Paul
Is there are crazing or micro blistering present?
Thanks
Frank

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Vehicle Location

Spalding, Lincolnshire

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