1973 Lotus Europa Twin Cam ‘John Player Special’

The Series I Europa first seen in 1966 were fitted with a modified Renault 16 1,470cc 82bhp engine and a four-speed gearbox. By 1971 this had given way to a 126bhp Lotus/Ford Twin Cam 1,558cc unit that was good for 0–60 in 7.0 seconds with a top speed of 125mph. In 1972 a Big Valve Special came out that could hit 60mph in just 6.6 seconds yet still return 25-30mpg economy, the most desirable of these cars being painted in black and gold John Player Special livery in a nod to the sponsors of the Lotus F1 cars.

Supplied new by Bell & Colvill Ltd GPK727N is number 206 of the 250 aforementioned John Player Special liveried cars, and the first Lotus road car to wear the team colours. 

Following an extensive and very well executed restoration this example is offered for sale in truly exceptional order throughout. 

Having been re-gel coated, re-sprayed in original colours, re-upholstered and treated to a host of mechanical work this is now one of the finest examples on offer, and certainly the best we’ve seen. 

Accompanied by a large and comprehensive history file containing service records from 1976 on, factory service booklets, Lotus Certificate of provenance, photographic evidence of the restoration, owners manuals and period sales brochures, past MOT certificates dating back to 1984 and more.