Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s famous engineering mantra was to “simplify, then add lightness” and the Series 1 Elise, launched in 1996, was the embodiment of that philosophy. It was simple, unadorned and as light as was thought possible.
Always looking to extend what was possible; the team at Lotus took their mantra even further, stripping off any “unnecessary” bodywork – such as the doors, roof and windows. What they created was exhibited as a concept for the 1998 British International Motor Show at the NEC in Birmingham, but such was the interest that the car eventually went into production as the 340R, selling out before any were even built. The designation was a reference to the power to weight ratio of 340 bhp/tonne – which the 500kg concept with its 177bhp 1.8-litre Rover K-series engine managed to surpass. By the time the limited edition run of 340 cars began in 2000, and despite looking like an Elise that had been comprehensively gutted, the 340R weighed in at 701kg (24kg lighter than the Elise itself).
Consigned to us from a private collection of primarily Lotus cars; this cherished example is number 182 of the 340 built by Lotus in 2000. It was first registered on 20/04/2000 and supplied by Nelmes Garage Ltd of Essex to a Mr. Gray, who owned it from 2000 until 2007. It was then exported to Hong Kong in 2008 by a Mr. Penton (and was looked after by Track Torque during this period). The Lotus then returned to UK soil in 2013 via dealer Paul Matty, who later sold it Mr and Mrs Thorne during 2014. Mrs Thorne hillclimbed the car and owned it until 2022 when it was purchased by the current custodian. Paul Matty Sports Cars Ltd serviced and ran the car, which proved highly reliable during her ownership.
The rare roadster has covered a modest mileage of just 14,400 and the accompanying comprehensive history file contains all MOT’s and invoices for work carried out between 2000 to 2022. The engine was rebuilt by Scholar in 2018 when the mileage was 14,118 – it reputedly produces a healthy 190bhp @ 7800 rpm and despite this; the owner confirms this track-destined machine is “still very much drivable on the road!”
Offered in standard factory specification throughout, save for a tyre upgrade to Avon semi-slicks; the colour was also changed in 2014 from Silver to Ice White. Ready to use and enjoy, with just four former owners, ‘W703 COO’ is supplied with its Owners Handbook, a 340R Supplement Service Notes book, a Maintenance Record book and spare key. One for the true Lotus Collector / Enthusiast…!
