The Lotus Elan +2 when launched in 1967 fitted very snugly between British sports car manufacturers such as Marcos, TVR and major manufacturers such as Triumph and MG. The Elan +2 was a development and evolution from the original Elan of 1962. The Elan +2 had a totally new closed coupe body designed to accommodate a couple of kids or useful storage for shopping or briefcase.
The two elans the original still being produced along side the +2 had many interchangeable parts except for the body, this was a benefit to the +2 as the mechanical parts had proven reliability.
The Lotus Elan +2 was also sold as in kit form, like the original Elan, but to get away from the heritage of kit cars Lotus introduced an improved Elan a year later which was only available to buy factory built. The improvements were a more luxurious interior and fog lamps fitted under the front bumpers, this version was designated the Lotus Elan +2S.
Next major change was in 1971 when a big valve engine was offered, making it the Lotus Elan +2S/130, also offered was the very attractive metal flake roof paint job. The last major change was in 1972 when a five speed gearbox was put in turning the car into the Lotus Elan +2S 130/5.
