Quote:
Originally Posted by lotus69f2
Your question as to whether this car is a Lotus brings up a really sticky and contraversial question. I will refrain from a dissertation and stick to the question at hand.
This car is essentially a rebodied Lotus Europa. The info delineated in the book above indicates the car could have been had with various options like the Cosworth BDA engine and different wheels. The car you posted pictures of appears to have retained the original interior. Clearly has the Lotus TC engine and still has the Brand Lotus wheels. I would consider this to be a Lotus Europa with custom coachbuilt bodywork in the tradition of the pre-war coachbuilders. To me, not as valuable as an original car, but worthy of having and preserving like any other Lotus by someone who has the interest. Others opinions may differ. From my standpoint the question of Lotusness depends on the degree of modification. Since this car appears to be only rebodied, it is a modified Lotus and falls into the category of custom coachwork. If it had the BDA, aftermarket wheels, and other mods I would consider it to be less of a Lotus and more of a customized special (or potentially a Hot Rod).
I would be interested to know if you buy the car and also to know what other than the body has been modified and whether the seller can provide any additional history or original literature on GS Cars.
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Kyle,
Thanks for sharing from your archives...you made a comment in another thread to another LTalker how eery it is that he and you have similar Lotus tastes and collections. I believe many of us, given the resources, would demonstrate similar collections!
Re whether or not this car is a true 'Lotus.' Kyle's thinking makes sense. Another way to look at it, though, is that coming out in 1975...carrying a Lotus badge and LOTUS lettering on the rear, and it being written up in books and magazines, Colin Chapman most certainly was aware of this car.
If he'd had a problem with its 'Lotusness,' rest assured legal action would've been taken to have the badging removed and cease and desist orders would've been sought so that it would not be marketed as a GS Lotus Europa.