Solved - NEH 1866: Lotus Metier

[Carnut]

Identify this car fully and correctly for 1 point:

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[Carnut]

On the  move...

[Craig Gillingham]

I know this one. It's the prototype for the Lotus 2+2 Elan, called the Lotus Metier. It's easy to pick as it has the earlier Elan tail lights and wheels, on a 2+2 body.

[Carnut]

I know this one. It's the prototype for the Lotus 2+2 Elan, called the Lotus Metier. It's easy to pick as it has the earlier Elan tail lights and wheels, on a 2+2 body.

Yes.  I never thought this one would reach the Experts!
Here's a front view showing other differences from the final production model:

[Craig Gillingham]

There's something about the 60's Lotus road cars and racing cars that they got right. I don't know what happened in the Lotus design office during the 70's.

[Carnut]

There's something about the 60's Lotus road cars and racing cars that they got right. I don't know what happened in the Lotus design office during the 70's.

And what's more, they're great to drive!

[Craig Gillingham]

I live in hope of owning a MK1 Elite one day, personally, I think one of the prettiest cars built. Here's a sample of the Lotus design office during the 70's.

[Carnut]

I live in hope of owning a MK1 Elite one day, personally, I think one of the prettiest cars built. Here's a sample of the Lotus design office during the 70's.

They are indeed beautiful, although somewhat crude and cramped inside..
And EXPENSIVE!