Lotus Elite

S1 Coventry Climax

1959 Lotus Elite S1 – The yellow bullit
Experience the pinnacle of British automotive innovation with this exceptional 1959 Lotus Elite Series 1. Renowned for its groundbreaking design and racing pedigree, the Elite S1 stands as a testament to Lotus's commitment to performance and engineering excellence.
Heritage and Engineering Excellence
Introduced in 1957, the Lotus Elite was the world's first production car to feature a fiberglass monocoque chassis, resulting in an incredibly light and rigid structure. Weighing just over 500 kg, the Elite's design contributed to its remarkable agility and performance on both road and track. Powered by the legendary 1.2-liter Coventry Climax FWE engine, this car delivers a spirited and unmistakably raw driving experience.
Thanks to its innovative design and wind tunnel-developed body, the Elite S1 achieved an astonishing drag coefficient (Cx) of just 0.29 — a figure that rivals even many modern sports cars, and a true engineering feat in its day. This remarkable aerodynamic efficiency made the Elite not just beautiful to look at, but also a competitive force in motorsport, including multiple class wins at Le Mans.
Rarity and Authenticity
With only 1,030 units produced between 1958 and 1963, the Elite S1 is a rare find. This particular example boasts matching numbers and retains its original color scheme, underscoring its authenticity. A comprehensive body-off restoration was meticulously carried out in 1991 by Mill Lane Engineering, renowned specialists in Lotus and Jaguar vehicles. The restoration, documented with detailed invoices and correspondence, encompassed 735 man-hours, reflecting the dedication to preserving this classic.
Condition and Maintenance
Even after 34 years, the Elite's fiberglass body remains pristine, free from cracks, and the Coventry Climax engine runs flawlessly. Accompanying the vehicle are several service invoices accumulated over the years, including yearly service by the current owner. The most recent service performed in 2024 by the current owner.
Additional Features
•⁠ ⁠The new owner can choose between a sets of original silver or sportier black wire wheels.

• ⁠ ⁠Currently registered on Belgian plates under the current owner's name

This 1959 Lotus Elite S1 represents a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history—combining rarity, performance, and timeless design in one of the most advanced sports cars of its era.