Goodings offer 1974 Lotus Europa Twin Cam Special at Amelia Island

Goodings offer 1974 Lotus Europa Twin Cam Special at Amelia Island

Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000 | Without Reserve
Chassis: 74/3814R
Engine: 30506

Initial Ownership Period of 37 Years and Approximately 30,000 Miles from New
Wonderfully Original Example Featuring the Celebrated Big-Valve Engine
Documented with Original Invoice, Detailed Maintenance History, Window Sticker, and Prior Title
Extraordinary Example of the Most Desirable Europa

In 1967, Lotus modified the popular Europa model for competition, resulting in the Type 47 race car. The most notable improvement was the addition of a Ford-Cosworth inline four-cylinder engine block mounted with a Lotus-designed twin-cam head. This engine was added in detuned form to the Europa road car in 1971 under the designation Type 74. The race car’s motor had been bored out and dubbed the Big Valve engine, and this more-powerful version was finally integrated in 1973 to create the Europa Twin Cam Special. The variant was an instant collectible, and the most desirable Europa yet.

This Lotus was purchased new by Ohio resident Ronald Schneider in June 1974, and he retained it for 37 years. Impeccably documenting his maintenance of the Europa, Mr. Schneider kept a handwritten log recording all service measures undertaken, including dates and mileages. As the log confirms, the wonderfully original car has never been restored in any substantial way, and the odometer currently displays approximately 30,000 miles.

This Europa now displays a warmly patinated finish that features the original model-specific gold pinstriping intended to resemble the marque’s renowned John Player Special Formula 1 cars. Documented with a window sticker, sales invoice, and service invoices dating to the 1970s, this remarkable Twin Cam Special benefits from the care of just three owners and would beautifully complement any sporting collection.


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