AB60 • Lotus Europa S2 Federal (Type 65) '69

Lotus says that the couple often think Elise-Exige. But under the Chapman era, there is a model that should not fall into oblivion, is the Europa. We owe this venerable model rear engine a cult: it has opened many doors to the English brand. And what line! But ultimately, she deserves a special status or she has been a springboard to other models?

Technical sheet

Model	Lotus Europa S2
Engine	1.5 inline 4-cylinder 82 horsepower
Dimensions	3.96 x 1.65 x 1.07 meters
Mass	710 kg
Marketing	1969 - 1971 2750 copies
average coast	NC
0 to 100 km / h	8"5
max	190 km/h
Consumption	NC l/100 km
Date and place	June 13, 2015, Le Mans

The beginnings . The history of the Europa began in 1966. Desired by Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus brand and author of the famous saying "Light is right", the Europa is a milestone in the history of the brand. This turning point, it appears that nothing in its name, which specifies the desired international dimension. In the new factory in Norwich, England, little hands are busy assembling the first generation (S1) of which will become one of the most iconic Lotus models. First, it is a Renault engine that is found under the hood. But before addressing in detail the song, let's look at the plumage. " What is this car? ", " To the cow, this is what brand ", " Damn she slams " passersby are often taken aback by the Europa's design. It must be said that the beautiful features a sporty line and including a rear seems surelevé, when in fact it is the rest of the car is close to the ground. The design is consensus in the era of time and corresponds to a request: that of sports saloons using a lightweight design, large series of parts, a small beefy engine and a reasonable cost for use.

Federal . While Europa S1 (Type 46) knows a great success, the competition versions are created (Type 47)arising on a second generation of Europa (Type 54) which then flow on a Federal Version (Type 65) who allowed to approve the Europa United States. Moreover, according to the country of marketing and year, the Lotus Europa may also call Europe. Let's look now in more detail about the version S2 Federal. It is marketed from 1969 and can be sold with left-hand drive (LHD) or right (RHD) . Despite a plastic little different from that of a Europa S2 "classic" when in reality all changed almost. Regarding the chassis, it is now detachable because the beautiful can be supplied mounted or in kit, English law has evolved. From an aesthetic point of view, the Federal Version features flashing lights placed in front, above the grille, door handles from the MGB or a dual front wiper (which does not have a copy here photographed ) .

AA . Finally, the Federal versions have a new engine block, 4-cylinder taken from the Renault 16 TS, displaying a displacement of 1.5 liters for 82 horses. Although a modest power but just fine for a model barely more than 700 kg. Also note that the case of a proposed car kit, the Europa S2 are quite complicated to identify precisely. Several S2 "classics" have indeed received preparations Federal release. Lotus Europa was first appreciated for his line, which strongly divides: loved by some, hated by others. But the fair has the merit of being original and rotate the head. In its marketing, the Lotus range was pretty bare and included only the Moose, small tray discoverable very nice. In terms of performance, the light is right operates. The central engine benefiting from a reduced weight, they are absolutely correct, it has repeatedly in the average and makes the 0 to 100 km / h in 8.5 seconds.

Sportive . The manual gearbox with four reports, Renault origin, is well staged. Feature, the engine and gearbox are reversed so that the Europa is a propulsion rather than a pull. The set is toned, bright and even allows sporty driving, old and charming. Of course, to enjoy it, it will lend itself to some contortions because with 1.07 meters high, the big guys will not be the best. But we do not regret the experience, this tray is the testimony of a bygone era where safety standards do not restrict the cravings and desires of enthusiasts manufacturers. Then of course, the Lotus Europa is not free of defects, lack of ventilation of the cockpit requires often roll the windows open and the other is that the accessibility of mechanical components is not really simple . This is about the Federal and S2 because the chassis is dismantled. In terms of evolutions, we note the emergence of four disc brakes, which offer better braking well.

Well equipped . The interior has evolved during the transition to the second generation S2. Europa receives the glass sliding doors (they were dismantled before!) , Adjustable seats (on the S1, only the pedals can be moved forward or backward) , a board of more modern edge with a wooden facade and a console Central. The power windows are also part and the radio, the braking assistance. While merely an increase in weight of 60 kg, the Europa S2 becomes much more pleasant to live and operate. For the Federal version is noted in addition the appearance of a brake fault indicator and hazard lights. The whole is so coherent and sufficient for a car that is intended primarily to have fun behind the wheel.

Letter of nobility . The career of the Federal Europa S2 is completed in 1971, giving way to a model named only Europa Type 74 , with a clean aesthetic with liserets receiving and displaying an engine block 115 and 126 horses. Federal version is perhaps not the most noble with his Renault mechanical origin but it remains balanced and quite sufficient for occasional use. At that time, the competition was tough and trays consituaient significant demand until the mid 70's where sports models more opulent and powerful emerging.Another philosophy, less sensational. Lotus has managed to preserve this philosophy on its Elise and Exige, which continue to show weight well below the dictates of competition, also less powerful, but able to offer sensations close to the ground. A wholly philosophy.

A success . The back part is the element most fascinating of the Lotus Europa. A unique rear, finely drawn but not unanimous. Admittedly, the Renault Alpine Berlinetta showed a more attractive line. But the culture of the different enabled Lotus will draw the benefits. The sales figures are good, very good even for a model that would open up to Europe. It not only exceeded the Schengen borders, but it has also become a model sought by many Lotus engines lovers. Another coup for Colin Chapman.

Different versions

Should You Buy a Lotus Europa S2?

Lotus Europa is one of those models that passion live. This line is really unique and can trigger both disgust that lightning strikes. Anyway, it is not a purchase disproportionate either. Although dénichable in widely varying price levels, it does not consume much, the tires are cheap and service is not the most expensive. It is a model 100% pleasure to be reckoned with, provided you agree Randomness of an old car, like a pretty grueling driving, braking, which although correct is far from a current or some model minor faults that may occur here and there.