1969 Unknown Other Makes Europa

Make

Unknown

Model

Other Makes Europa

Year

1969

Listed price

$4,250

Location

Landrum, South Carolina

Transmission

Manual

Mileage

60,000 miles

The Lotus Europa, introduced in 1966, was Colin Chapman's audacious vision for a road-going, mid-engined sports car, directly translating the lessons learned from Lotus's dominant Formula racing machines. Revolutionary for its time, it was one of the first mass-produced mid-engined cars, bringing exotic supercar architecture to a more accessible price point. The Series 2, or Type 65, arrived in 1968, addressing some of the original's quirks with a new, bolted-together fiberglass body (rather than fully bonded to the chassis), offering improved repairability and refinement. Power typically came from a Renault engine, chosen for its compact size and availability, driving the rear wheels through a manual transaxle. The Europa's incredibly low slung body and lightweight design made it a pure driver's car, delivering an unfiltered connection to the road that few vehicles could match. This 1969 Lotus Europa Series 2, a true enthusiast's project, presents a unique opportunity to restore a significant piece of automotive history. Imported to the US as an unpainted car and finished in California, it retains its original paint on the fiberglass body, a testament to its past. While currently a "basket case" without its original steel wheels, the seller confirms that all other major components, including the Renault engine block and manual transaxle, are present. The frame has been sandblasted and primed, and suspension components have received similar treatment, indicating a solid foundation for restoration. With a clear title and a Lotus Heritage Certificate, this Europa awaits a dedicated owner to bring its lightweight, mid-engined glory back to life. This is an incredible chance to revive a seminal Lotus and experience the pure driving ethos of Colin Chapman.