The Aventure ontinued with a 1969 Lotus Europa (S2). The wonders of Lotus always begin with great Excitement. Also, everyone know that LOTUS means Lots Of Trouble, Usually Serious.
If course I didn’t know anything about buying a car, much less a LOTUS. Enough Said? I went to look at the car a European car dealership for my inspection of the car. Of course I was overly excited at the possibility of owning a Lotus. I should have known better as I noticed a fuel puddle under the car as the salesman put a gallon of gas in the tank. “Does it run?” I asked. “Of course” he says. At this time in my excitement I didn’t know enough to ask additional questions. I should have noticed how quickly the seller said he’d deliver it if I bought it. I lived 200 miles away. I knew too little and paid too much. Oh well, another learning experience.
What did it need? Where do I begin? Hmmm. Fuel dripping, how about a new tank? Oh, no one makes Lotus Euopa tanks. Oh, and how do you take one out of the car? The 9 gallon tank sets right behind the driver seat. Ok, so we have leaking gas with a fiberboard “firewall” behind the drivers seat, a leaking exhaust manifold next to the tank. What could go wrong?? That was corrected by having it professionally relined so it would hold fuel. But it was a Lotus, I was excited.
That was just the beginning. it was followed by Brake master cylinder, new Carb, front a arms, dashboard wiring repair, brakes, tires, wheels, calipers and full carpet. That’s just what I can remember.
BUT. It was all worth it. Driving a mid engine car is an experience every driver should have. The front/rear balance makes it go through corners very secure. In addition, this car only weighs about 1600 pounds.
Additional photos are available in the Gallery.