New Port Richey, FL | USA
Description
1978 Lotus Eclat 4 Speed manual transmission. Needs interior work, gauges need to be reinstalled. Car runs and drives, has all parts and manuals necessary to complete. $5k or best offer. ...
Our Take:
- The 1978 Lotus Eclat is part of the lesser-seen side of the Lotus lineup from the '70s, being overshadowed by its more famous cousin, the Esprit. The Eclat features a unique fastback design and was marketed as a grand tourer—a bit of an irony for a brand known for lightweight sports cars.
- With only about 1,500 units produced from 1975 to 1982, the Eclat is a rare find today. Its rarity alone will pique the interest of collectors, but it’s the Eclat’s engineering that really sets it apart. It shared many components with the Elise, featuring the same backbone chassis that gave Lotus cars their legendary handling.
- This particular example offers a four-speed manual transmission, which was standard at the time, giving drivers a more visceral connection with the car. Though the car needs some interior TLC and gauge reinstallation, it’s an excellent opportunity for hands-on restoration enthusiasts.
- The mileage is refreshingly low at just over 26,700 miles, suggesting that the car was used sparingly—perhaps cherished more as a collector's item than a daily driver. The fact that it’s running and complete with manuals is a nod to its potential as both a restoration project and a future showpiece.
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