Just like any good modern, luxurious sports car, this 1969 Lotus Seven boasts a wide array of desirable features like an engine, 4 wheels and a seat. But there are key differences, too. Like a gross weight just 100lbs shy of some motorcycles and a complete lack of creature comforts and even doors. The Seven’s creator and Lotus founder Colin Chapman didn’t like gravity and went to great—and sometimes eccentric—lengths to reduce the mass of his sports and racing cars. Reduced weight increased acceleration, handling and braking capabilities and, generally speaking, made for cars that were easier to drive at the limit. A point proven by the several 1st place racing plaques this Seven wears on its dashboard. Also on the dashboard is the odometer that reads just 8,200 miles. The seller indicates that the Lotus was owned by just one careful owner from 1969 to 2012 and has not been registered for road use since 1987. Photos would appear to prove this point true with the bodywork, wheels, interior and engine compartments showing exceptional condition. The aluminum panels are straight and damage free and the only change from stock is claimed to be the later addition of Caterham fenders and larger rear taillights. Lotus Sevens have long been driven hard and then neglected, and finding one in this kind of condition is a rarity. If it were ours we’d backdate the taillights, lose a little weight ourselves and then add a few more plaques to the dash. Find the Lotus for sale here on eBay in Calgary, Canada with the reserve not yet met at $23,200.
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