1966 Ian Walker Racing - Lotus Elan

[theelanman]

http://www.classic-auctions.com/Auction ... 38480.aspx

Estimate: (?) 50,000 - 70,000

Reg Number: NAB953D
Chassis Number: IWR-GT-2
Engine Number: 164001
Cc: 1558
Body Colour: Blue
Trim Colour: Burgundy
MOT ExpiryDate: T.B.A.

Responsible for campaigning / developing the Elan 26R with Works backing, Ian Walker Racing conceived a streamlined aluminium-skinned version as a potential Le Mans 24-hours contender. Unveiled at the 1964 Racing Car Show, the resultant Kamm-tailed fastback subsequently crashed at Montlhery and although repaired never made it to La Sarthe. The streamlined coupe had however attracted a number of follow-up orders. Concerned that IWR's new streamliner would present unwanted competition for his factory 26Rs, Colin Chapman was quick to quosh the project but not before sanctioning the construction of a one-off roadgoing example.

Bodied and trimmed by Williams & Pritchard and Radford respectively, chassis IWR-GT-2 was supplied new to Swiss collector Hermann Huber. Always right-hand drive, the two-seater remained in Huber family ownership until 2003 when it was repatriated at an indicated 69,000km (the odometer currently shows 70,300 km / 43,860 miles).

Still exceptionally original in terms of its French Blue paintwork and Red leather upholstery, the Lotus has undergone an engine refresh by marque specialist Paul Matty since entering the current ownership some three years ago.

A unique part of Lotus history and a handsome GT to boot, chassis IWR-GT-2 has been featured in numerous books and magazine articles.

[richardcox_lotus]

Given the price of recent sprints etc, this guide price seems cheap to me. It'll be interesting to see what the hammer price is....

[AlfaLofa]

It looks more like a Bond Equipe

[ken ob]

I know beauty is in the eye of the beholder but when i saw this car in the flesh it looked ugly.

Ken

[AlfaLofa]

I tend to agree

[Spyder fan]

The looks from the front are an acquired taste, but I think I could get used to it if somebody accidentally parked it in my garage with the keys and transfer of title documents

[tcsoar]

Amazing too that although they made this from ali they still included some of the original fibreglass details, details like making sure the bottom of the doors protrude just enough to give that 'your doors not shut mate' look.

Chris.