Highlights

Rare when new, and even rarer now Extensive mechanical improvements Dyno tested to 297 bhp Superb interior trim Magnetic Blue paint in great condition

Overview The Europa name was revived by Lotus in 2006, having had a previous life in the 1960s and 70s.

This new two-litre car was intended to be slightly more touring-focused than the Elise, with luxuries like carpets and air conditioning.

It was powered by a two-litre Vauxhall engine mounted at the rear, and the styling certainly showed that it meant business. Sadly the Europa didn’t sell hugely well, with only around 460 being produced in total.

So today — now that this model has become appreciated as a desirable grand tourer — it has considerable rarity value.

You won’t be very likely to pull up next to one at a petrol station. This particular Europa has been the subject of considerable improvement by current and previous owners.

But this isn’t a boy-racer bodge job.

It has evidently been very carefully thought out...