ELAN S1-S4 & SPRINT - REAR SUSPENSION

The original Elan 1500 was introduced in 1962 as a roadster. After a very short production run of 22 cars the engine was enlarged and the car was redesignated the Elan 1600. An optional hardtop was offered in 1963 and a coupe version in 1965. The two-seat Lotus Elan replaced the elegant, but expensive to produce Elite. The Elan was technologically advanced with a DOHC 1557 cc engine, 4-wheel disc brakes, rack and pinion steering and 4-wheel independent suspension. The Elan 1600 of 1963 was replaced by the Elan S2 in 1964. The S2 gave way to the S3 in 1965 with a fixed-head coupe now offered alongside the 2-seater sports. The S4 followed in 1968 and the Elan Sprint was introduced in 1970. Production of Sprint ceased in 1973.