Duxbury, MA | USA
Description
Had to relist. NICE PROJECT ( due to the amount of people who contacted me the price is FIRM)......Needs a lot of little work...A very very rare car project. Fuel tank needs cleaning. Runs and drives, but fuel tank not hooked up. Clutch feels good. Needs master (rebuilt) for brakes to work. Interior apart and needs some work somewhat and seats need re installing but are good. It will need some electrical work, as well as replacing vacuum lines for lights to stay down, tune up etc. Body needs ...
Our Take:
- Rarity Meets Quirkiness: The Lotus Eclat from 1977 is indeed a rare bird, with less than a thousand produced during that year. This wasn't your typical sports car; it featured a unique blend of British engineering and quirky design choices—something Lotus fans have grown to love. It's a bit like finding a rare vinyl record from the '70s that needs some cleaning; it’s got character written all over it.
- Distinct Design Language: The Eclat's design was a hallmark of the wedge-shaped aesthetics Lotus was playing with back in the '70s. With its fiberglass body, it kept the weight down, even if the bodywork does require a bit of TLC now. The wedge design was an epitome of the era, and seeing one in need of a repaint is like discovering a Van Gogh that needs retouching—just waiting to shine again.
- Unusual Transmission Choice: Though the Eclat was typically known for its manual transmission, this automatic version adds an extra layer of obscurity. It changes the driving dynamic quite a bit, allowing for a more laid-back cruising experience. It's like being handed a cup of Earl Grey instead of espresso—still delightful but with a different vibe.
- Historical Odds and Ends: The Lotus Eclat is essentially a more practical version of the Elite, designed for those who wanted a bit more trunk space. Even though it needs some electrical work and a brake master cylinder rebuild, these kinds of projects are typical in vintage Lotus cars. They require a bit of care and precision—much like maintaining an antique clock—but the reward of hearing that engine purr is well worth the effort.
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