The Spyder Donington, a conversion kit developed by Spydersport Ltd, transformed the Lotus Elite/Éclat by replacing its original Lotus frame and 2.0-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine with a rolling backbone chassis designed to accommodate the powerful 3.5-liter Rover V8 engine.
Although Lotus had previously created a prototype Elite with a Rover V8 engine, Colin Chapman, the founder of Lotus, opposed the idea and insisted on using only Lotus power plants. The Spydersport chassis was specially treated to resist rust and corrosion, and it was equipped with a Rover five-speed manual gearbox.
Customers had the option to order power-assisted steering and air conditioning, enhancing the car’s comfort. One notable feature was the inclusion of a Jaguar XJ limited-slip differential with inboard disc brakes.
Source: Bonhams
