A rare racing variant of the Lotus Elan has emerged from a private collection in the United States, drawing attention for both its scarcity and its unfinished restoration. The car, an Elan 26R, is one of approximately 100 examples produced and is widely regarded as one of the most sought-after versions of the lightweight British sports car.
The vehicle belongs to longtime Lotus enthusiast Frank Filicicchia, a well-known figure within the American Lotus community. Known for supplying rare and reproduction parts, Filicicchia has spent decades collecting and preserving classic models from the brand. His collection, though modest in size, includes several notable vehicles, but the 26R stands out as its centerpiece.
Unlike traditional barn finds, the car has been stored in a basement and remains a work in progress rather than a forgotten relic. The 26R was originally developed in 1964 as a race-focused evolution of the standard Elan, featuring a reinforced chassis, lighter body panels, and specialized components designed for competition use. Its reduced weight made it exceptionally agile, even requiring additional ballast in racing conditions to meet regulations.
The example in Filicicchia’s possession is currently disassembled, with restoration plans underway. Many of the essential components have already been sourced, including the model’s signature Twin Cam engine. The goal is to return the car to running condition while preserving its historical integrity.
Filicicchia’s broader collection also includes a range of Lotus models that reflect the company’s engineering philosophy centered on simplicity and low weight. Among them is a Lotus Seven, a design introduced in the late 1950s that became a defining example of minimalist performance. His garage also houses a 1965 Elan S2, notable for retaining its original paint and hardtop, both uncommon features for the model.
While Lotus has evolved into a modern manufacturer with a focus on new technologies, cars like the Elan 26R continue to represent the brand’s racing heritage. As restoration efforts move forward, the rediscovered example offers a rare glimpse into a pivotal chapter of Lotus history.
