Lotus Elite 2nd Gen
The Lotus Elite Type 75 was the brand's first 4-seat luxury GT, featuring a distinctive wedge design and the celebrated 2.0-liter 907 engine. The market has a wide price spread, with condition and originality separating affordable projects from valuable collector-grade examples.
Find one with Spotter →Typical sold price of a Lotus Elite 2nd Gen ranges from $2,325 to $31,749, based on 75 sales tracked on Hypercars. 21 currently for sale.
Lotus Elite 2nd Gen Specs
- Engine
- 2.0L Inline-4
- Horsepower
- 155 hp
- Torque
- 140 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph
- 8.5s
- Top Speed
- 124 mph
- Curb Weight
- 2,200 lbs
Introduced in 1974, the second-generation Lotus Elite (Type 75) marked a significant shift for the company. It moved Lotus upmarket from its spartan sports car roots into the 4-seat luxury grand tourer segment. The car featured a striking fiberglass wedge-shaped body designed by Oliver Winterbottom and was the first to use Lotus's new 2.0-liter 907 twin-cam engine, which it initially shared with the Jensen-Healey.
Collectors appreciate the Elite for its bold styling, rarity, and its place in Lotus history as the brand's first attempt at a premium GT. Despite its larger size and added comfort, it retains the excellent handling dynamics Lotus is known for. The 907 engine is a landmark powerplant for the company, and its presence adds to the car's appeal. Later variants, like the Type 83, offered updates including power steering and air conditioning.
The market for the Elite is thin, with few examples trading hands publicly. The average sale price of just over $19,000 is heavily influenced by needy project cars. The vast price range, stretching from under $4,000 to over $80,000, highlights the immense value difference between cars requiring total restoration and pristine, low-mileage examples. A car's condition and originality are the primary drivers of its value.
Buying Tips
- Inspect the fiberglass body for gel coat cracks, crazing, and previous repairs, especially around suspension points and door hinges.
- The steel backbone chassis is prone to rust. Get the car on a lift and check the outriggers and the areas where the chassis meets the body.
- The 907 engine requires diligent maintenance. Look for signs of oil leaks, head gasket failure, and check service records for timing belt changes.
- Test all electrical components. Lucas electrics from this era are notoriously fickle, and fixing issues with the pop-up headlights or gauges can be a chore.
- Interior trim is hard to find. Check for cracked dashboards, warped trim panels, and torn original fabrics, as a complete interior adds significant value.
Prices range from $3,400 for project cars to $81,215 for top-spec variants in excellent condition.
75 Lotus Elite 2nd Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 21 currently live. Sold prices range from $1,092 to $81,312.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Lotus Elite 2nd Gen cost?
Based on 75 sales tracked on Hypercars, Lotus Elite 2nd Gen prices typically range from $2,325 to $31,749. There are 21 currently for sale.
How many Lotus Elite 2nd Gen listings are for sale right now?
There are 21 Lotus Elite 2nd Gen listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.