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Curated Auction

1972 Lotus Super Seven GT S4

At a Glance

Twin Cam Highly Tuned | Ready for Road or Race | Tax & MOT Exempt | Engine Rebuilt | "All-Weather" Gear Included

  • Mileage~89,298
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine1.6L
  • LocationCoventry

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below - we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report - learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below - we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report - learn more

CURATED AUCTION

Days
HRS
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CURRENT BID£1,000
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£1,000

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy
Photographer and Editor

The Lotus Seven's potent performance and pedigree are only bettered by its brilliant handling.

The Lotus brand had modest beginnings and the first car was based on a stripped-down, tuned Austin Seven. Thanks to his 'Simplify, then add lightness' philosophy, Colin Chapman, the company's creator, spearheaded Lotus' ascent to fame in motor racing and sports vehicles in an exceptionally short time. The kit-form Seven arrived on the scene in 1957 and became notable for its performance and dynamic handling. Based on a multi-tubular space frame with power sourced from Austin or Ford engines, the Seven was created as a low-budget, high-octane experience appealing to club sports and potential racing champions.

Every incarnation of the Seven saw improvements to the technical specifications, including brakes, steering and power. By 1970, Lotus were becoming increasingly plush and bowed out their final incarnation of the Seven. The series 4 is recognised by its fibreglass body with a square rear design, stronger and stiffer chassis, roll bar and 1.6-litre twin cam engines. Offering a 1970s aesthetic with the same exhilarating driving experience as the original Sevens, it also had more creature comforts, such as accommodation for luggage, a hood and side screens with sliding Perspex windows.

This restored 1972 Lotus Super Seven GT comes from almost ~4.5 year ownership with our vendor and has an excellent presentation. Having seen an extensive rebuild in the mid-1980s, followed by a credible hill-climb competition history, the engine was rebuilt again in the mid-2010s. It is MOT and road tax exempt, and sold with a folder of invoices detailing historic maintenance and servicing.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Harvey the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Meet the owner

A thrilling car to drive, no other car comes close to its experience.

Harvey bought the car at the end of 2020 from Bill Postins, a well-known former circuit racer and latterly classic car dealer. Using the car as a weekend and occasional evening tool, he's enjoyed the unrivalled driving experience.

Being lucky enough to own another Lotus. he has decided to sell the car due to lack of use, and to use the funds towards another more modern Lotus. Harvey will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Harvey
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER

Exterior

The build-quality and finish of this example is exemplary.

Wheels and Tyres

The car is fitted with period Wolfrace 13” slot-mag alloy wheels which are all in excellent shape.

The dual-use road/trackday Nankang NS2R tyres date from 2018, and they all look to have plenty of life in them. View the gallery to see the detail.

Bodywork

The one-piece fibreglass body is in excellent shape, with no signs of repair or damage. It’s sat evenly on the frame. The bonnet opens and closes with ease. The steel tubular frame structure is in good shape, with no signs of wear or damage. The lower side panels are well-mounted.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Paint

The gel-coat in "Lotus Deep Yellow" looks positive and offers a decent lustre and consistent hue. The finish is free of road wear, with no issues noted on the wings, nose or rear.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Glass and Trim

The windscreen, headlamps and tail lights are all in good shape. The roll cage and window frame are clean with no signs of age.

Interior

Fitted with period-style seats, the cabin is bigger and far more comfortable than you might expect.

Seats and Carpets

The seats are in good condition fitted with a pair of TRS Magnum four-point harnesses.

The car has rubber mats, and both have worn well.

Dashboard

The dashboard is smartly presented, with no significant signs of age. The centre console switches show signs of age but are said to be operational. The Smiths dials are all legible. The cabin trim and rear storage area are tidy.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The leather trimmed steering wheel is in good condition, a better grip provided than a classic styled wooden rimmed steering wheel. We didn't see any issues of note on the gear knob or gaiter, although the lever shows signs of age.

Mechanics

A considerable amount of time and effort has been spent on the engine, and it shows in its performance.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine start process was straightforward, starting and running smoothly without undulations or unwanted noises. The dashboard warning lights stayed off during the engine start process, remaining out as the car idled. There was no excessive exhaust smoke after the cold start, as the engine warmed up. The engine is leak free. The engine presentation is positive, with clear evidence of new parts and maintenance. A substantial amount of invoices dating from 2015 from QED Motorsports relate to an engine rebuild.

The four-speed gearbox operates without any reported problems, the clutch is said to function without any issues. Watch the video to see and hear the car in action on the road.

Suspension and Brakes

Fitted with adjustable shocks, it manages the roads without unwanted noises or thuds.

The car also brakes without any grinding or squeals.

The Drive

The very embodiment of performance through low weight and simplicity, this example has seen extensive maintenance and upkeep on the engine. We were treated to a short low-speed drive around the estate, Harvey still managed to show off the car's impressive character and sparky low-speed acceleration. The steering is tight with no unwanted noises or vibrations and remains true when braking. It pulled exceptionally well, the engine sounded even with no pops or hesitation.

The ride quality is surprisingly comfortable and wasn’t upset by bumps or dips, which bodes well for its high-speed potential. Harvey has not noted any problems with the oil pressure or engine temperature.

Electrics and Other

There are very little electrics on the Seven but Harvey told us everything was working to his knowledge.

The car comes with a pair of side screens and a hood, which are all in excellent shape.

History and Paperwork

Coming to market from ~4.5 year ownership, extensive work on the engine and interior has been carried out in the last ~10 years.

First registered in May 1972, it comes with invoices back to 2015, having been completely rebuilt in the 1980s. There is an email from the owner who restored the car after buying it as a non-runner with chassis corrosion in 1981. Starting the renovation in 1983/84, the first thing replaced was the chassis, which was replaced by a Spyder Engineering one obtained via Caterham Cars. New tubular wishbones and Spax adjustable shocks were followed by the rebuilding of the twin-cam Ford Kent engine. The block was rebored, fitted with new lead indium bearings, a lighted flywheel, Powerplus pistons, Piper Magnum 285 Cams, a new water pump, MicroDynamics custom-made distributor, electronic ignition and a high-pressure oil pump. It was entered into sprints and hill climbs in the mid-80s, with excellent results.

The invoices from 2015 onwards, are mostly engine components, electrics, service and sundry items. Notable items include a new exhaust manifold in 2018, £1,100 worth of engine parts and a seat retrim in 2015. It is Road Tax and MOT exempt.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
08-10-2022 MOT 89,089
15-12-2020 MOT 88,456
07-11-2020 Oil and Filter Service
14-05-2017 MOT 86,561
Key Details
  • Model Super Seven GT S4
  • Transmission 4-Speed Manual
  • Reg. Date 01-05-1972
  • CC 1,558
  • Mileage 89,298
  • History Since 2015
  • Colour Lotus Deep Yellow
  • Interior Colour Black
  • Chassis # S4/3091/GT
  • Engine # P32534
  • Restored Historic - mid 1980s
  • Engine Rebuild ~2015
  • MOT 07-10-2023
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - all clear
  • Former Keepers 9
  • Tyre Brand Nankang
  • Tyre Age 2018
  • LHD or RHD RHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~4 years, 4 months
  • Key Feature Rare S4 version with modified engine
  • Auction ID 2647


    Auction Bidding

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    Current Bid £1,000
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    Auction Ends Thu 8th May at 8.20pm
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    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a Lotus Seven like this is £158 via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Spring 2025.

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    Vehicle Location

    Coventry

    Key Bidding Facts

    What is your reserve policy?

    A reserve is the minimum price that the seller will let the car go for. We work with sellers to set realistic reserves in line with market pricing – we don’t take on vehicles with unrealistic pricing. Reserve met / not met labeling may or may not be announced during the auction – this is just like a traditional auction house, i.e. bidders may only know when they’ve been successful at the end of the auction.

    If the reserve hasn’t been met at the end of the auction then we work with the highest bidder to try to work out a deal with the seller.

    Why shouldn’t I leave bidding to the last minute?

    Auto-Extending Bidding – we’ve developed auto-extending auctions that mimic traditional auction house bidding; it’s a key feature to make sure classic vehicles achieve their true worth. Bids placed in the last one minute automatically extend the auction by two further minutes. So there is no need to leave bidding to the last second.

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