[{"id": 1625150, "authorName": "Klasic01", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/klasic01/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "That headline picture caused a flashback to Speed Buggy the lovable but crappy 70s cartoon.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499695567, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625156, "authorName": "HealeyRick", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/healeyrick/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My 16-year-old brain still lusts after one of these, but my 60-something body would probably have a different opinion.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1499696051, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625158, "authorName": "Frost", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/frost/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The first time I saw one of these was watching the premiere of the classic TV series \"The Prisoner.\" Patrick McGoohan gets one last drive in the opening credits, before being abducted and taken to \"The Island.\" This one is off the scale on the coolness meter. Good luck to seller and buyer...", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499696308, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625173, "authorName": "danman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/danman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hard to believe this same basic car is still in production....with V8 power.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499696648, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625166, "authorName": "vixenlotus", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vixenlotus/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Looks like a nice Seven but I do not think its a Lotus S2. From a few clues it looks to be a early Caterham with early rear tail lights bolted to it. In fact you can see evidence of where the old Caterham name plate used to be under the \"lotus\" tag. Front suspension is all wrong, numerous other signs of a much later car are present (particularly the frame) .\nI suspect this is one of the early Caterham cars made between 1974-1978. Should still be a nice ride.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499696664, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625178, "authorName": "vixenlotus", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vixenlotus/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "danman ?? who is making a V8 seven? I think there may have been a few made over the years but the current sevens made by the kit car company's mostly all use 4cylinder motors. \nCaterham, Westfield.....", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499696798, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625180, "authorName": "Zscream", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zscream/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@vixenlotus, maybe @danman is talking about the Hayabusa v8 kit?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499696987, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625207, "authorName": "Timflybyu", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/timflybyu/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "For sure that is not a series 2 lotus. This car is a caterham somone has tried to make look like a lotus S2. Current owner probably had no idea. Early caterhams were very inexpensive in the U.K. a while back. This happens to a lot of them.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499698470, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625221, "authorName": "brisboats", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brisboats/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I like the car and very nice photography. Going to be paying close attention here its right down the road from me.\nB", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499699084, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625239, "authorName": "Tom_MoPar", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tom_mopar/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sports car perfection on steel wheels and hubcaps.\nLove this.\nBest of luck with the auction.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499700132, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625243, "authorName": "Zinhead", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zinhead/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Bring a KAR120C.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1499700344, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625246, "authorName": "johntennyson", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/johntennyson/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Frost: Be seeing you...\n\n\n... in \"The Village.\"", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1499700543, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625251, "authorName": "Frost", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/frost/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@johntennyson,\nYou're right it was the Village, not the island. Thanks for correcting my pre-coffee posting. At least I remembered the car...Cheers...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499700984, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625270, "authorName": "Stanford81", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/stanford81/", "bidAmount": 3500, "content": "$3,500 bid placed by Stanford81", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499702128, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1625275, "authorName": "Robert.C", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/robert.c/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Interesting -- and not insignificant -- debate going on regarding the merits of this car's origin. I suspect an original Lotus chassis would be worth significantly more than a Caterham, even if Caterham has the official license to sell this car. The question is, is the onus on the owner to prove it's a Lotus, or on the doubters to prove it's a Caterham? I don't know enough about these cars to have an opinion either way, but the seller's case does seem to be strengthened by the inclusion of a Lotus chassis plate.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499702255, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625285, "authorName": "ace10", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ace10/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "According to the Seven Registry, there should be a Frame # stamp for later S2's. Per their description, the stamp would be visible \"On top of the chassis rail where the front bolt of the master cylinders are located.\"\n:popcorn:", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1499702604, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625310, "authorName": "supersportsp", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/supersportsp/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This looks to be perhaps an S3 series car with some Caterham bits (rear wings for example) bolted to it. Not an uncommon thing to happen, particularly in the UK. S2 would have much narrower (by about half) rear fenders and a different front suspension set-up.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499704255, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625338, "authorName": "Super7Driver", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/super7driver/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "re the V8, Westfield made a rover-V8 version called the Sei8 (or something close). As for a Hyabusa V8 \"kit\", the only thing close to that is the Hartley H1 prototype, but that was a one-off, not a kit. Caterham never made a V8.\n\nAgree that the front suspension is different from either S2 lotus (where the anti-roll bar is also the upper forward arm), or early Caterham.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499706112, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625435, "authorName": "SimpleSevens", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/simplesevens/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It's the triangular gussets at the outer edges of the dash panel that suggest Caterham, or at least modern 'replacement frame' -- The record I have on this car from 2013 in fact indicates an 'updated' replacement frame prior to 2013. It was then bare aluminum and burgundy with a Lotus Twincam engine. Instrument layout (not standard Lotus Seven), unique transmission tunnel, unique scuttle shelf cover panels (covering where a heater was originally installed), and front suspension all appear to be the same as in photos from 2013. Regarding that front suspension, it is neither Caterham nor Original Lotus. It is a kit found on most current Lotus Sevens in vintage racing (it is not DSK) and it is fully reversible. For someone looking for a genuine Lotus Seven, this may be just a bit off with newer tub (called the CBU by Lotus once they had received the frame from their supplier and skinned it) and other Caterham details - the bonnet for example. This car may be what SB2138 has been turned into. The fear without being able to match up a FRAME number (different than the 'SB' number), engine and carb numbers, is that the original CBU of SB2138 may turn up restored onto another Seven which may or may not have more of the original SB2138 parts. If genuinely 'replaced' by Arch motor, they would have taken the original CBU and literally cut it to bits assuring that it would not show up again as another version of SB2138. Cheers, jd", "likes": 15, "timestamp": 1499710521, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625457, "authorName": "lotiguy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lotiguy/", "bidAmount": 12345, "content": "$12,345 bid placed by lotiguy", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499711701, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1625461, "authorName": "David_P", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/david_p/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Caterham or Lotus or whatever, to me this is about as Iconic Seven-looking as a Seven gets. Looks just like the Tamiya kit, too.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1499711770, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625621, "authorName": "BCngU", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bcngu/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Be seeing you", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499714222, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625644, "authorName": "AlfaZagato", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/alfazagato/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@David P I have the second of my Tamiya kits on my bench right now. Tried seeing if I could shoehorn a blown Chevy big-block into it.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499714460, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625755, "authorName": "masernut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/masernut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Great looking car, but with serious questions that need to be answered by the seller/marque specialists that will have a major impact on value.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499715717, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1625942, "authorName": "pg_mike", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pg_mike/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Not withstanding the pedigree, a great example of a Lotus Seven. I especially like the steel wheels and hubcaps along with the crossflow 1600. By the way the \"village' is actually Portmeirion in the north of Wales.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499718015, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1626069, "authorName": "David_P", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/david_p/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@AlfaZagato, if you work in 1/16 for the engine I bet you could fit a V12 in there ;) I have an still-unbuilt Porsche 935 kit - they're terrific kits.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499719174, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1626072, "authorName": "David_P", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/david_p/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "....and at least it wasn't updated to an S4!", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499719194, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1626045, "authorName": "Elanguy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/elanguy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I think SimpleSevens sums it up pretty well. Most Sevens when restored in the 1970s and 1980 were updated to S3 specs (even S1 cars sadly enough) and I would guess that is what happened here.\n\nThere was a nice discussion on a sale a while back, \nhttp://bringatrailer.com/2014/02/21/bat-exclusive-number-puzzle-lotus-seven-project/\n\nLooks like a very nice Seven. I'd love to have it, and I would probably want to back-date it to S2 fenders and axle.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499719199, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1626168, "authorName": "wdb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wdb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The steelies with Cortina hubcaps are a perfect complement to the clean, simple lines of the car. Whatever else it is, it is handsome.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499720655, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1626310, "authorName": "Super7Driver", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/super7driver/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I also love the look of the steel wheels and hubcaps. When I had a TR4A I had my first ride on an autocross course in a S2 seven with a Lotus twincam and these wheels. What a ride that was. Years later I missed my chance to buy that car, it would have been fun. Simple Sevens is a great resource, thanks for the expert input.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499723234, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1626655, "authorName": "GlenK", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/glenk/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have been fortunate in life to have driven many performance cars, but the 7 will always stand out as one of the best. With this combination here, getting about town and country roads is just a dream drive. There is no need for any over weight V8 in a 7. One can't get much better pure driving experience. The driver works the engine to get the most amount of performance from this little engine.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499739392, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1626851, "authorName": "mikebike", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikebike/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "buy it...", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499754002, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1627134, "authorName": "RSM", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rsm/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I never crease to be amazed by the experts flagging details. Great Scott I love this site . . .", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499783174, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1627326, "authorName": "MichaelAustin", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/michaelaustin/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It's Christmas, 1968. There's a party. I see a college friend who has been in Canada for the past two years, where he is living as a conscientious objector. He had taken a risk to come back to the US to visit his family and he's returning to Canada the next day. \r\n\r\nA couple of years earlier, he had bought a new Super 7 in kit form, got a part time job at the Lotus \"dealer\" and put the car together. At this time (age 24) I was more into 356's and 2002's, but of course I asked him about his 7. \r\n\r\nHe tells me that it was in his mom's garage and needed an oil pan. The car was BRG, Cosworth, Webers, steel wheels, no yellow nose, no oversize rear fenders, and 4K miles. It was simple perfection. Not one thing added that didn't need to be there, save the 7 emblem and the beautiful word \"Cosworth\" stamped on the engine. \r\n\r\nWithin a few minutes of car talk, my friend suddenly offered to sell it to me for a price close to a Christmas present. Miraculously, I got by with a little help with my friends and got him the cash the next morning. We pushed the car out of the garage (not hard) and a friend and I towed it to the Lotus guy. Two days later, I'm driving a car I'll never forget. \r\n\r\nPutting myself through school, as a young dad, I had a job as a tax collector for the State of Texas. I roared around Houston in the Seven and after a hard braking stop, briefcase in hand, I'd hop out on the right to pay a visit to my clients. Wearing the required suit, often dripping in the 100 degree summers, I can't imagine what my clients thought of their new tax guy. Pretty funny really. A young, skinny, wet James Bond wannabe, who thought this car was much cooler than an Aston Martin. Still do.", "likes": 17, "timestamp": 1499791534, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1627374, "authorName": "groceg", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/groceg/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I wish I knew more about these. I do have a new respect for them having just read this book. https://www.amazon.com/Inside-Shelby-American-Wrenching-Carroll/dp/0760343942. John Morton is the driver that won 2 national championships driving Datsun 240Z's and 510's for Peter Brock in the early 70's but before that he drove a Lotus 7 that he owned while working at Shelby American in the early 60's. The Lotus was the car he cut his teeth on. I met him at a recent event and he clearly has a soft spot for these as he still owns one in spite of racing some very impressive marks over the years including Cobras, Porsches, Ferrari, etc.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499793364, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1627699, "authorName": "ace10", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ace10/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The nature of questions about the authenticity of the vehicle would seem to warrant some commentary or additional evidence from the seller, no?\nOr am I crazy?", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1499801666, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1628276, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Hi, \"The Seller\" here. To those who see the car and appreciate it for what it is, I thank you. To all of those who aren't geniuses, but play them on the internet, listen up: I would like to get few things straight before we proceed too far down this path with which some seem to be obsessed. I am seriously angry about this plate change/it really is a Caterham business. I figured I'd just keep quiet and smarter opinions would prevail. But ace10 called me out, so here you go. This car was sold in the UK, imported in to the US, sold and registered three times, shown and judged as 1966 Lotus Seven serial # SB2138. It has NEVER been a Caterham. It has NEVER been a series 3. It has always been SB2138 and whether it stays as it is or somebody drops a big block Chevy in it, it will always BE SB2138.The fact that the car was restored with Caterham parts is obvious. I have owned at least 4 original 7's and all have had Caterham parts. \nTo those of you who imply I've changed the plate on this car, I advise you to tread carefully. I have changed the ID plate with a new readable version of the plate that came off the car, which I still have. I NEVER changed out a Caterham plate to falsify this car. The holes in the body are from the original Lotus plate. The kid at the body shop mounted it incorrectly. You tell me why and we'll both know. In my Caterham that I currently own in the UK, the plate is a longer narrower plate than the holes in the picture indicate. I would like to know, too, how you can be so sure about the car when you've never seen, touched it or researched it? Do you have different importation paper than I? Have you known this car it's whole life and can attest to the fact it is a Caterham? No you don't and you can't. Frankly, there is not a person who can. I am selling this car based on its history and its paperwork. It is obvious to all that this not an original unmodified 7. If that type of car is what you are looking for, this is not it. But it is not a Caterham and never has been. Its # makes it arguably more significant that a Caterham and eligible for vintage events not open to Caterhams. It can, because of its early UK registration as Lotus #SB2138 be re-imported to the UK for a reduced tax. And, as of my writing this, the knowledgeable folks at Simple Sevens tell me there is, at least in their database, no duplicate SB2138. If you think I'm making this up, prove otherwise and tell Bat. They can remove the auction with my abject apologies. To imply any wrong doing here in this manner is a rotten thing to do without at least talking to me first. Or go to BaT.,\nAs for the front suspension, it is not \"All Wrong\". It is a fully adjustable set up built by DSK Cars in Marblehead Mass. They were the go to guys for 7's in the 1970's and 80's. Look em up.\nI did what I did and the car looks the way it does because it was my intent to turn it back to its, if not original, at least period spec. I am proud and confident of the results. You want to come see the car, see the papers see the work done. I welcome you. We'll have fun. I will address your criticisms with respect and aplomb and give you all the time I have to give. \nIf you get it, you will not be disappointed with price or the car. Then you can call it Speed Buggy if you want. Now that was funny.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1499815811, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1628285, "authorName": "anduril3019", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/anduril3019/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@speedipuss rex\nI think maybe you are mis-reading the majority of comments. I see a lot of honest questions, but I don't see any calling you're representation into question. There are definite discrepancies between the pictures and the description, front suspension for example, probably all explainable. If I had the money, I would bid on this because I love it, but I would still want some answers to the questions being asked.\n\nGLWTS", "likes": 10, "timestamp": 1499816334, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1628333, "authorName": "secret_squirrel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/secret_squirrel/", "bidAmount": 13500, "content": "$13,500 bid placed by secret squirrel", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499818361, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1628519, "authorName": "ace10", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ace10/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "LOL. When totally legitimate questions about a vehicle being offered for sale are met with a hostile response such as that... I have but one thing to say...\nGLWTA!", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1499826060, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1628695, "authorName": "MrBurger", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mrburger/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Deep breaths @speedipuss rex. There are some legitimate questions here. Had the description explained some of the mods, e.g. the front suspension (that's what made me sit up a bit...) maybe it would of quelled some of the comments. Most, if not all of the people around here buy vehicles online. When you see one red flag you start looking for others, that's just normal, online or not. This is a great (the best) forum for selling vehicles online and there's this great comment section where knowledgeable people look for discrepancies to benefit both the buyer and the seller. It works both ways, no need to get shouty.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1499843822, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1628803, "authorName": "86Cab", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/86cab/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Nice car... I've only owned 10 vintage Lotuses so I am no expert but if \"the kid at the body shop\" had ever touched the ID plates on any of them I would have happily plead down to assault from attempted murder...put two pop rivets in the empty holes and move on...it is what it is...a very attractive modified early 7...a nice car.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499864406, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1628867, "authorName": "2manyLoti", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/2manyloti/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "A pic of the original plate might help quell the hubbub. Thanks for your explanation!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499866520, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1628877, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Perhaps, as a seller I see things differently when it comes to being told what my car is or it isn't. And yes, It gets a little frustrating. Anyway, not wishing to appear hostile, my intent was to be stern in my argument and to the point. Put a lot of time and $$ in it and I don't particularly want to let it go. But needs must. So perhaps we can reset the clocks. The description, as edited by BaT from my info and approved by me is accurate. I don't know how else to describe it except as what it is Lotus #SB2138. The things that may be seen as \"Red Flags\" are to me perfectly sensible mods that were done when we used to do all sorts of things to keep these cars on the road. It didn't occur to me that they would be unrecognizable to those truly interested in the car. If you needed a chassis for your 7, you welded up your own. Lotus didn't have them and Arch and Caterham were in the UK. This chassis is an Arch motors version. The DSK mods were quite the thing in the time available and actually would have been a positive selling point. That's why there is a clear shot of the front end. So to me, this all seems pretty run of the mill, quality stuff. It's a restored 7. I have done what I did to bring it back to period/original spec. It is in excellent shape. It's a great little car regardless of whether it's a Lotus or a Chevy. It is not easy to find 5 true Lotus Cortina wheels! This is a straight up little car with good pics and a good description that makes no false or misleading claims. And a good price. I stand by it all. I hope this clears things up. If any of you need more, contact me. I have history back to before it was imported. To 86Cab, thank you. And yes, that kid is living on borrowed time.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499866825, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629050, "authorName": "Timflybyu", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/timflybyu/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Owner we are not saying you are misrepresenting the car. We are saying you do not know what it is. This car clearly has a body and frame from a early caterham and it Is not a series 2 lotus. One look at the pictures makes it clear.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1499872411, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629157, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have 30+ years of paper work from 2 countries saying this is a Lotus 7 #SB2138. No where in any of the paperwork, photos, conversations with previous owners is there any evidence or suggestion that this car was ever a Caterham. Seriously, as what do you want me to sell it? I know exactly what it is: It is a restored 7. Period.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499875352, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629199, "authorName": "Timflybyu", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/timflybyu/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The car is a nice one. But 30 years of documentation is not enough. That brings it back to 1987. This car was put together long after lotus stopped making them. We are saying it's a caterham from the -1974-1980 era. No need to get mad. Arch made both the lotus and caterham frames this car just happens to be the later. Some time early in this cars life it was represented as a lotus and that's the story that was passed down to subsiquint owners. It kind of sucks you are finding out\nNow - but it's best to clear this sort of thing up before the can gets kicked further down the street.", "likes": 7, "timestamp": 1499876550, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629281, "authorName": "jas280z", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/jas280z/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Commenters bring up very good points questioning the provenance of the car. Seller proceeds to get very hostile and defensive.\n\nBold strategy Cotton, let's see if it pays off for him.\n\nhttps://youtu.be/9HVejEB5uVk?t=8s", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499878452, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629308, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I am not hostile I am not defensive. I have explained several times the history and provenance of the car. It is a restored 7. It has Caterham parts. It has an Arch motors frame. It has 1600 crossflow and Cortina wheels. It has been on the road since the 26 of March 1966. The original London issued registration plate ended in a \"D\" for 1966. Please what more do you want?", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1499879266, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629311, "authorName": "vixenlotus", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vixenlotus/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The ID plate may have been the only thing on the road in 1966. The rest of the car mostly likely was not. The frame / body looks to be a early Caterham to me. I have an early Caterham sitting in my garage, its easy for me to compare.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1499879450, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629344, "authorName": "beckster", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/beckster/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I think it would be a privilege to keep that ID plate on the road in such a handsome form. I am too broke to bid, but wish both the seller and buyer all the best. Pur sang is an elusive concept at best.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499880386, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629351, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thank you. If I didn't need the money, I'd give you the car.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499880672, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629386, "authorName": "Abacot", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/abacot/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "as one who has spent a bit of time (and $$) on BAT let me suggest we let the market decide on this one. \n\nI went back and looked at the various Seven listings on BAT from the past year or so ... most were clones of one ilk or other. I didn't see a single car represented as a Lotus that didn't have its provenance questioned in some way OR that didn't contain some parts / mods that clearly were not original ... so is all this tooing and froing really accomplishing anything?... I think not.\n\nI think we can all agree this car is a Seven and it looks well done and driveable and that is what these cars are all about. Bid accordingly to your belief or need (or not) for originality and if the seller likes the final bid ... great! If not ...move on", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1499881807, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1629483, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thanks, well said.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1499884336, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1630062, "authorName": "George308", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/george308/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "All,\r\n She looks to be a very nicely updated driver, not a museum piece. If you can' deal with that don't bid, but also don't run down the car or the seller for what you think the car should be. If I had the garage space I would certainly be bidding.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1499893155, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1631027, "authorName": "86Cab", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/86cab/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Do you have the original buff UK logbook and or a V5 UK registration document for the car?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499950482, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1631113, "authorName": "86Cab", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/86cab/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I was doing some research in contemplation of a bid. Interesting that the car is listed and described by the seller as a 1966 \"D reg\" Series 2 Chassis SB 2138 that's \"been on the road since 1966\". Graham Arnold's book on Sevens lists the last Series 2 chassis as 2101 made around June 1968, two years after this car was was supposedly registered. Series 3 production began in June 1968 with #2102...still a nice car but the provenance is not quite as clear as described. Does it matter? Only if it matters to a bidder but if this car is SB2138 then it is a Series 3 from 1968.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1499954183, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1631154, "authorName": "86Cab", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/86cab/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Conflict- Coulter's book states SB2138 in fact WAS a Hethel built Series 2 and Series 3 production began with SC2311. I should have checked additional sources...as my wife points out I have plenty of car books in our library. My apologies. I would consider Coulter's book a better source. Just goes to show you how confusing the world of early Lotuses can be. Again my apologies. Great looking car that was likely running aroun England in 1966!", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1499955778, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1631235, "authorName": "86Cab", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/86cab/", "bidAmount": 14000, "content": "$14,000 bid placed by 86Cab", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1499958241, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1633502, "authorName": "Texaco51", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/texaco51/", "bidAmount": 14500, "content": "$14,500 bid placed by Texaco51", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500017057, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1633619, "authorName": "secret_squirrel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/secret_squirrel/", "bidAmount": 15000, "content": "$15,000 bid placed by secret squirrel", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500036503, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1634533, "authorName": "odcy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/odcy/", "bidAmount": 15250, "content": "$15,250 bid placed by odcy", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500060615, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1635886, "authorName": "SevenOwner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sevenowner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The chassis plate shown in the photo cannot be the \"original chassis plate\" for SB2138. \nThe shown plate has the Lotus Components format with the two numbers boxes stacked vertically. Well before SB2138 would have been built, the plate format was changed to the more common Lotus plate format with the boxes side-by-side. \nAlso, original chassis plates were etched and painted. As they age, the paint comes off in small pieces.\nThe chassis plate in the photo looks like the more modern replica plates that were not etched, but instead pad printed. The paint on these plates peals off from the edges. \nThere's no way it's the original plate. It's a replica, albeit probably many years old.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500123870, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1635896, "authorName": "SevenOwner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sevenowner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The only authority on whether a Seven is a genuine Lotus-built or Lotus-supplied Seven is John Watson at the Lotus Seven Register. It's well known that he bases his opinion on the frame number and owner-provided history, then compares the information with his decades of records. The frame number is key since they've never been published. The chassis number (eg SBxxx) is much less important, even if on government registration papers, since it's easy to fake a no-other-car-claims-this-chassis-number-therefore-mine-must-be-the-real-one. Without Watson's agreement, I'd never buy a Seven as genuine Lotus.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1500124305, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1635917, "authorName": "ibmiked", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ibmiked/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Always wanted one. Is it safe to say that at this size, it's totally irrelevant to the driving experience whether these cars are left or right hand drive? Aside from shifting, it would seem that being so central to the longitudinal axis of the car would make adjusting to the experience very easy.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500125252, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1635924, "authorName": "wdb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wdb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm confused by the intensity of the discussion here. I hold Colin Chapman and his creations in very high esteem, mind you! But this seems like a lot of work to go through to 'fake' a Lotus, with no real upside to the seller for doing so. For me, Occam's Razor favors the seller's story.\n\nWhat am I missing. Perhaps 'fake' Loti were a big issue in England at one time?", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500125587, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636046, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If you'd read my earlier comments you would have read that I did indeed change the plate as the old one was worn to a blank.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500130739, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636126, "authorName": "alaskossie", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/alaskossie/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@ibmiked -- yes, but passing in traffic is still no fun, IMHO. I've been a passenger in a RHD Seven on a long road trip, and the role of spotter is essential for safe overtaking.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500134499, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636292, "authorName": "Ilveccio", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ilveccio/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The way that sevens were made, sold, and used, one SHOULD expect a mish-mash of parts on a car that was actually driven. A \"pure\" untouched car should probably set off more red flags than one that's been changed over time. A seven isn't like other classic cars in this regard. Since someone brought him up, John Watson understands this, and while he's knowledgeable and accurate, he isn't precious about it either. I was once looking to bring a S2 from Jersey to the UK mainland, and he was very helpful, just based on photos. I haven't talked to him since I moved to the USA, but he used to be pretty accessible. \n\nI understand why Americans are super sensitive about fake cars, based on all of the Shelby Cobra stories that one hears. I was at Goodwood in the early 2000s when two versions of the same GT40 showed up, and THAT was fun for everyone, except the two wealthy egomaniacs who owned the same car. Based on the various complaints here, I'm not concerned - especially given that the bidding at the moment is lower than it would cost to buy a rough Caterham. \n\nOne advantage of RHD is that you don't burn your outboard arm on the exhaust, and you don't burn your leg getting in and out. If it's over-cammed (as God intended), it should give you some nice flames out of the side-pipe when you lift for corners, too...", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500146001, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636354, "authorName": "alaskossie", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/alaskossie/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@ilveccio -- some Caterhams (like mine) have an engine selection that locates the exhaust on the right side of the car, so it is the passenger who risks getting branded, not the driver.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500151695, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636383, "authorName": "Texaco51", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/texaco51/", "bidAmount": 15500, "content": "$15,500 bid placed by Texaco51", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500153921, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1636664, "authorName": "johnforsman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/johnforsman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have a Lotus 7 'brand'. Men, I suggest not wearing shorts while driving. I got mine not while exiting, but when leaning over to turn off the dash lights. Why, finally, had I assumed the muffler had cooled in 30 seconds after shutting off the motor? I will wrap the muffler in exhaust cloth, and add a protective aluminium cover to protect me from me. Oh, and the lack of a drivers side rear view mirror, better be wearing a cap with a chin strap because when one looks over the shoulder to be sure the way is clear to change lanes. I had left caps behind, wind gets under the brim and good bye. I drove mine across France last week to Italy, on country roads and found myself welcomed everywhere.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500184813, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636748, "authorName": "manpot", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/manpot/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "100 per cent real Lotus or not I love this 7. How nice to see a real road going model with hubcaps no less! Love the period AA badge ..at the moment this looks like a bargain to me..", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500209219, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636761, "authorName": "Timflybyu", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/timflybyu/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "You just need to compare pictures of this ones dash (the lower right and left corners) with a Google picture of a Lotus Seven S2 to know what this one is. FYI thats the frame tubes that are coming in at an angle. A S2 they should not look like this. Research for yourself.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500210514, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636771, "authorName": "1963Turnerjohn", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/1963turnerjohn/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Johnforsman - great story! I bet your tour to Italy was simply fantastic - what a fine choice of motor car for the tour - no doubt one of the most organic and exciting adventures! Sorry about the flag - my thumb in error when I tried to hit the ?Button - that flag not constructive button needs a safety!!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500211312, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636779, "authorName": "utp79", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/utp79/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I might be slightly odd but I love seeing a Lotus with the correct steering wheel still fitted. & wheels come to that!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500211966, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636795, "authorName": "Abacot", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/abacot/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Ross Robbins .... what do you think about this one?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500213604, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636818, "authorName": "RickReeves", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/rickreeves/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "..For when your MG Midget has just TOO MUCH cabin space.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500215522, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636820, "authorName": "ibmiked", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ibmiked/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I suddenly feel that I've taken my first step into a much larger world. How on earth can someone buy a car like this without first learning everything there is to know about them? Not doubting the seller's veracity but it seems like you could end up with a lot of egg on your face buying the wrong car, especially if there is this much resistance now about it's authenticity. Is it better to buy an acknowledged 'clone' so at least you know for sure what you're getting and what it will be worth if you ever sell? It seems to me that if this car commands a premium now it will be a very illiquid asset down the road.\r\n\r\nDon't get me wrong, I'm head over heels and moving money around now to be a bidder if it stays within my budget regardless.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1500215558, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636864, "authorName": "brigadooner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brigadooner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Fake Sevens: this is an ambiguous term. And original Seven with a replacement frame (Caterham, arch, etc), new engine, trans, suspension, electrics, interior and new body work is still a real Seven. Right? A fake Seven might be 98% mechanically the same as that restored real Seven, but ... it just wasn't born a Lotus. \n\nI'd advise any serious bidder to contact the two experts who have been mentioned in this conversation. The seller could also do this to clear up any controversy and ensure max value for his sale. \n\nStandard practice when buying ANY older classic is to check with the official club (which in some countries can make LEGAL judgements of authenticity). In some case contacting the OEM is also a good idea (when they've maintained good records). I've been saved multiple times from sometimes spectacular fakes (that major international auction houses missed), and the three times I didn't do such due diligence I got screwed out of a bunch of money. Think about it, would you give a stranger $20k for a Van Gogh without verifying that it is authentic beyond a reasonable doubt? Ok, so why is buying an old car any different. \n\nImho, the sellers story sounds solid to me, but then I'm not bidding on this car.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500218377, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636909, "authorName": "TheOMDude", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/theomdude/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Not knowledgeable about everything 7, but I had noticed on a local car that while the fenders (and track?) gave the impression that the wheel and tire sizes were \"staggered.\" it was an optical illusion. All four tires on that car were the same size. Supposedly the cars are so well balanced that oversize rear wheels are unnecessary. Is \"staggered\" wheels a common condition?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500221149, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1636961, "authorName": "Grog", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/grog/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Alas, I wonder if I will ever be in a position to own another of these. I sold SB1562 15 years ago due to severe but temporary financial hardship and I yearn for another opportunity to enjoy the sheer joy of tossing it around the back roads of New England again. Not this time. I won a Bat auction a few weeks ago and I have my toy for now.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500225898, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637011, "authorName": "alaskossie", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/alaskossie/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@TheOMDude -- I believe that identical-sized tires and rims were use all around, on all of the Lotus-built Sevens. On the Caterhams, as the power increased, there was a perceived need to have a wider rear tire and wheel, to get the power to the pavement. As Caterham power outputs approached and exceeded 200 hp, this may have become a prompt owner mod, even as Caterham continued to offer same-sized tire all around.\nAfter assembling my 2007 Caterham S3, I substituted wider rear tires and rims to handle its 250 hp, and I'll admit just because there was sufficient clearance at the rear to accommodate the wider tire and rim from the Caterham CSR.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500229523, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637014, "authorName": "Abacot", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/abacot/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "SO we're at a bit of an impasse ... can't conclusively prove a negative and with 20 years of missing or unavailable documentation can't conclusively prove this was born a Lotus in 1966.\n\nThis looks to be a nice little car, pretty well done, solid driver, etc ... so what is the $$ delta between a well-done and upgraded early Caterham and a real-deal Lotus with unarguable history?\n\nI know we aren't talking mega-bucks between the two, so if you are buying this to drive and enjoy for a few years and haven't gone crazy with the price ... just how much risk are you really taking?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500229706, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637026, "authorName": "secret_squirrel", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/secret_squirrel/", "bidAmount": 16100, "content": "$16,100 bid placed by secret squirrel", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500231028, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1637068, "authorName": "wjeffords3", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wjeffords3/", "bidAmount": 16500, "content": "$16,500 bid placed by wjeffords3", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500235207, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1637112, "authorName": "brigadooner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brigadooner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Abacot (auto correct keeps suggesting albacore...)\nI shopped for a seven (S2 super) for a year before buying something else, and it felt like cars with unassailable provenance were going for 40% to 50% more than nice ones with ambiguous heritage. So, no not big dollars nor a big % difference. Quite different from blue chip collector cars where the difference can be 10x to 50x (for a fake vs real Cobra or C-type). Question, if you were bidding and had confirmation from HLR or SS that this was a legit S2 Super, why would you mention it as it would just drive up the price?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500238635, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637283, "authorName": "bentleyboy29", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bentleyboy29/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Bitsa", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500253164, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637335, "authorName": "alchemistoxford", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/alchemistoxford/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Setting aside the issues of originality. this Lotus Seven S2 really looks the part. Congratulations to Frost and anyone else who recognized this as a tribute to Patrick McGoohan's excellent tv-series, The Prisoner. When McGoohan visited the factory, where he was being encouraged to select the Elan as his series car, his eyes landed on a Seven pained in this traditional colour scheme for the Lotus F1 team - and it was love at first site. The opening sequence of The Prisoner placed the Seven in front of millions of fans. Still, Chapman decided to part with the Seven and sold the license to Graham Nearn who established Caterham Cars. If I wanted an early Seven to drive - and did not care about concours originality, this one would be extremely attrractive. I hope it goes to a buyer who appreciates the iconic power and presence of this exciting Seven. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tra3Zi5ZWa0", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1500257142, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637346, "authorName": "Texaco51", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/texaco51/", "bidAmount": 16875, "content": "$16,875 bid placed by Texaco51", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500257893, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1637527, "authorName": "Colinslovechild", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/colinslovechild/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@alaskossie and @theomdude - Im thinking the stagger illusion is in part because the rear axle is a ford unit vs the standard 10 that would have been on an S2 ( its probably also why the s3 fenders are on it ). I've read the comments string a couple of times and while in the market for a seven I am struggling to identify what part of this car was actually in Chestnut on the date of manufacture.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1500298313, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637591, "authorName": "AndyL2", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/andyl2/", "bidAmount": 17125, "content": "$17,125 bid placed by AndyL2", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500302004, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1637603, "authorName": "Ian7", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ian7/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Having owned numerous Caterham's and their clones, I've an opinion on this ones' originality (but not seeing it in person shall remain quiet). Can't help thinking though, given that the owner is understandably quite adamant, the whole thing will become a moot \"reserve not met\" issue. :-)", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500302525, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637650, "authorName": "QuicVic", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/quicvic/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm always amazed by the chat on some cars and whilst the originality argument is paramount on some cars it is much less so on this one. One view - my view is \"Who cares at this price?\" If this was being sold in the UK then it would be 20 to 30% more for sure. With the chassis number only on the VIN plate (which is the right plate and probably about the right number for a '66 car) suggests it was originally sold as a kit without an engine and even if the number only relates to the hand brake cable and everything else is split new, so what? the kind of history found here makes it a typical car. The whole point of the S2 (7) is that it was designed as a drivers car and that means purely for driving with the emphasis on the pure - nothing else mattered then or now. Other marques are often fetted as 'drivers cars' and this description usually meets with a wry smile from S2/7 owners, because most don't even come close to being anything like it by comparison. You don't drive an S2, you wear it as a sort of 'quick-suit'. \n \nMost 'original' cars, and certainly any that had any competitive history, were upgraded Saturday to Saturday with paddock improvements and if the factory had any better ideas and the owner at the time could afford it, then cars probably got a winter up-grade to boot. So long then, that this is in the driving condition the seller claims, it is a good S2 that probably does originate from '66. Would Chapman approve of this car? Of course he would. The ultimate drive at a minimum price. And the lucky bidder will know why Chapman was such a genius at the first S-bend he/she encounters. Stop wingeing and get bidding.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500305077, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637656, "authorName": "Ian7", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ian7/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@QuicVic one mans wingeing is another mans spirited discussion. :-) Personally, I believe this is a great car/buy at the current price, but as I said below, it 'feels' like the buyer is going to expect \"Lotus S2 with provenance\" level of money. We'll know in a few hours ....", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500305202, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637668, "authorName": "Stanford81", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/stanford81/", "bidAmount": 17750, "content": "$17,750 bid placed by Stanford81", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500305644, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1637677, "authorName": "QuicVic", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/quicvic/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@theOMdude Lotus supplied 7 1/2\" arches on the standard car but 9 1/2\" were an option on later cars to accommodate wider rear tyres. @Ian7 I guess you are right - lets see. If I had a reliable stateside buddy I would certainly be bidding at this price but the embuggerence of shipping and NOVA put me off. Besides I'm currently sorting a Healey that was equally written off by 'experts' on here despite turning out to be exactly what was being offered.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500306000, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637862, "authorName": "oddysseus", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/oddysseus/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I've got too many hours of the Lotus position ahead of me before even beginning to think of adding another, but if that weren't the case, this is one to seriously consider at this price.\r\nProvenance? Anywhere under 30K, and its silly to be even discussing. These have always been bitsa kitcars, even if bought fully assembled from the factory.\r\nThey are for flogging, not for showing. Not many more pure grin inducing beasties this side of a motorcycle available, at any price.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500312570, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637912, "authorName": "alaskossie", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/alaskossie/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Colinslovechild -- \nI doubt that any part of this Seven was in \"Chestnut\" at any time. As for being in Cheshunt, that's what the back-and-forth on this car has been all about. :<))", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500314264, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1637977, "authorName": "Lotus7A", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/lotus7a/", "bidAmount": 18000, "content": "$18,000 bid placed by Lotus7A", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500316685, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638015, "authorName": "BigGLG", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bigglg/", "bidAmount": 18250, "content": "$18,250 bid placed by BigGLG", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500317683, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638019, "authorName": "wdb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wdb/", "bidAmount": 18752, "content": "$18,752 bid placed by wdb", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500317759, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638026, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thanks to the all the good folks here who have seen this car for what it is. I hope one of you ends up with it, has fun and goes to events. The car is NOT at Lotus S2 w/provenance money. It is in Caterham money area and I am surprised nobody ever even bothered to bring that up. oddysseus summed the car up perfectly. Good luck to the knowledgeable.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500317911, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638072, "authorName": "athaler", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/athaler/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is this really gonna close so low?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318517, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638077, "authorName": "wjeffords3", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wjeffords3/", "bidAmount": 20000, "content": "$20,000 bid placed by wjeffords3", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318585, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638093, "authorName": "dfree", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dfree/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sold a clone 2 years ago for $33,500", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318682, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638094, "authorName": "wdb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wdb/", "bidAmount": 20752, "content": "$20,752 bid placed by wdb", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318694, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638099, "authorName": "wjeffords3", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wjeffords3/", "bidAmount": 21500, "content": "$21,500 bid placed by wjeffords3", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318727, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638109, "authorName": "wdb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wdb/", "bidAmount": 21750, "content": "$21,750 bid placed by wdb", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318828, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638111, "authorName": "wjeffords3", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wjeffords3/", "bidAmount": 22000, "content": "$22,000 bid placed by wjeffords3", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318859, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638118, "authorName": "wdb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wdb/", "bidAmount": 22250, "content": "$22,250 bid placed by wdb", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318906, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638122, "authorName": "wjeffords3", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wjeffords3/", "bidAmount": 23000, "content": "$23,000 bid placed by wjeffords3", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500318942, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1638142, "authorName": "Dagwood", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dagwood/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@athaler\n\nYes.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500319053, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638144, "authorName": "Anonymous", "authorUrl": "", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Reserve not met on 7/17/17 at $23,000", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500319064, "type": "bat-bid-reserve"}, {"id": 1638149, "authorName": "dfree", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dfree/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "that's what I figured", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500319103, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638151, "authorName": "Dagwood", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/dagwood/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I'm not surprised.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500319114, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638163, "authorName": "wdb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wdb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sigh. I'll just have to keep dreaming the dream. This looks like a great car.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500319162, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638175, "authorName": "wjeffords3", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wjeffords3/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Yup. It would have been a pleasure to drive.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500319236, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638203, "authorName": "wdb", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wdb/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Maybe we should form a limited partnership. :)", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500319570, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638219, "authorName": "wjeffords3", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/wjeffords3/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I could use in the winter [Florida] and you could have it in the summer.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500319750, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638413, "authorName": "brigadooner", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/brigadooner/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Advice to seller. Update provenance with info from HLR to put reasonable and unreasonable fears to rest.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500321804, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1638864, "authorName": "speedipuss_rex (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/speedipuss_rex/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The car came VERY close to reserve despite the obvious. If anybody is interested, would love to hear from you. We can have an intelligent discussion about the car and I am sure your fears can be laid to rest.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1500326144, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1639444, "authorName": "vixenlotus", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/vixenlotus/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If he had just called it an early caterham he would have got more money. I do not see any part of this car that came from the 60s.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500338055, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1639472, "authorName": "Ross_Robbins", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ross_robbins/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Abacot Sorry I missed this one and your question having been in England for the past month including the 6oth anniversary of the Seven at Donington where I had a nice visit with John Watson of the Seven register.\r\nMy thoughts: If this is close to meeting the reserve as the Seller suggests, then someone who wants a nice Lotus Seven should contact the seller and find out what it will take to own it. While it does not perfectly match the specification of an S2 Seven, it seems to me to be exactly what is represented here which is a continuously updated S2 Seven with S3 dash arrangement, engine and axle along with the D S K front suspension mod. Most of this provenance discussion for a Seven is like picking the pepper out of the bird droppings for five good reasons: 1: A Seven is meant to provide a pure driving experience and these mods will only enhance that 2: Sevens are not and never will be Amelia or Pebble Beach cars so value is in the driving experience not the pedigree of the car and 3: If you use it as intended the worth is priceless though the value will diminish with its acquired patina of use...as it should be. 4. what other thrill ride could you buy for this kind of money anyway. And, finally, 5. John Donahoe likes it and so do I. I have searched for years to find four Cortina wheels and caps for my S3 but have only found the caps and 3 of the wheels so I had eased off looking. After seeing this presentation I am on the hunt once again. \r\n\r\nSomebody is gonna love this!!", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1500338796, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1639616, "authorName": "Fredframe", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/fredframe/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This looks like a very nice car, but for what ever reason the seller started to dig him self a hole about mid auction and could not get him self out of it.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1500345632, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1639681, "authorName": "beckster", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/beckster/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "What wheel size is on the car? Are they the same front and rear. Beautiful car I hope it finds a suitable home. GLWTS next time.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500350391, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1642155, "authorName": "ibmiked", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ibmiked/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "If a person wanted to have a conversation with the seller about purchasing this car now that the auction has ended, how would one do that?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1500431991, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1691554, "authorName": "SimpleSevens", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/simplesevens/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The car is about to be listed for sale on SimpleSevens.org. Watch for it by the end of the month.", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1502893075, "type": "comment"}]