Elan Tips Required

Sir,

After reading J. Holmes’ letter in your April issue, regarding not purchasing a secondhand Lotus Elan because of “an engine tune-up each week, and a major rebuild every 30,000 miles”, it disturbed me slightly, to think that in a few months time I will also be purchasing a secondhand Lotus Elan +2S. Could you put my mind at rest, surely it cannot be as bad as this?

Also, what are the main points to look for when purchasing a car of this type and are there any quick and sure tests of identifying a good Lotus from a bad one?

My compliments to all the enthusiasts who put MOTOR SPORT together. Doncaster A. F. RATCLIFFE [Can any reader provide Mr. Ratcliffe with advice?—Ed.]