Chassis No. US64EB1921
Engine No. FWA40076885

The 1963 Lotus Elite SE (Special Equipment) showcases Colin Chapman's innovative approach to engineering. As the world's first fiberglass monocoque production car, it combined lightweight construction with remarkable strength. Powered by an upgraded 1.2-liter Coventry Climax engine producing 85 horsepower, the SE featured twin S.U. carburetors, a close-ratio ZF gearbox, and Formula Two-inspired suspension with Chapman struts. Capable of 112 mph, it offered thrilling performance and precise handling. Unveiled at the 1957 Earls Court Motor Show, the Elite became a motorsport legend, winning six consecutive Le Mans class victories and solidifying its place as a groundbreaking and iconic GT car.

This Lotus Elite is believed to have been imported to the U.S. by Ecurie Shirlee the exclusive distributors for Lotus Cars throughout the western United States and owned by racer John Timanus until 1986. Frans Nelson then acquired it, commissioning a rotisserie restoration in Southern California, refinishing it in black with a silver roof, a color scheme he believed original. Around 1993, this car was acquired by Bob Cole. Cole was a member of the Triumph factory race team who competed at the 12 Hours of Sebring multiple times, also operated a multi-marque dealership in San Bruno, just south of San Francisco. The Elite was a perfect match for Cole, a regular attendee of Pebble Beach events. By the late 1990s the Elite entered the collection of California collector Ira Zalesin, who is known to have taken the car on the California Mille doing his ownership. Later, in 2006, the Lotus was shown at the Quail during Pebble Beach Car Week.

Acquired by Academy of Art University the Elite remains an exceptionally attractive front-engine GT that continues to wear its two-tone SE-spec paint, brushed Raydot side mirrors, and Borrani knock-off wire wheels with aplomb. Further, the interior is period 1960s Lotus with a correct three-spoke wood-rimmed steering wheel, Smiths gauges, and correct seats with only older Simpson lap belts hinting at past California Millies. Perhaps most fittingly the engine compartment is where improvements for rallies are visible. The FWA (FeatherWeight Automobile) stamped 1,100 cc Coventry Climax is fitted with uprated braided fuel lines and Weber 40 DCOE2 carburetors breathing through ITB filtration. This exceptionally attractive and sporting British GT is very nicely presented and offered with a knock off hammer, small tool roll, and full size spare.