A Lotus MkVI from 1953 that has enjoyed an extensive and successful racing career, mainly in the United States of America.
One of approximately 106 built, 964 XUU was exported to the USA in the early 1980s and immediately embarked upon a racing career in the hands of a Mr Robert Snyder before passing to gentleman driver Bill Sandifer III. Visiting all of the famous east coast tracks including Watkins Glen, Road Atlanta and the Mid-Ohio Raceway, this MkVI also ventured further afield to Sebring and even to the Bahamas.
A huge number of entry confirmations, results sheets and event programmes (enough to fill a box file) have been retained from Sportscar Vintage Racing Association (SVRA) events, along with various vehicle passport booklets and scrutineering tags, showing a prolific racing history between 1983 and 1989, most notably in the gloriously named Walter Mitty Challenge.
Eventually 964 XUU was retired from racing and, following a period of dormancy, in 2004 was sent to Vintage Machine Works, Connecticut, for a full and deserved restoration. A huge photographic record, of over 260 images, of the strip down and rebuild is present for inspection. This documents that every last component was either refurbished or replaced. A very careful inspection of the chassis was undertaken with repairs made as necessary. New aluminium wings were acquired and the original nose cone was carefully restored and reused. The E93a wheels were refurbished and Dunlop racing tyres fitted (sparingly used and available with the car). The whole process was completed in early 2006.
The restoration was most definitely undertaken with racing in mind, with the addition of a racing fuel cell and pump, an upgraded radiator and oil cooler, adjustable platform shock absorbers and an ignition cut out switch. It does, however, have amazing compliance on the road too.
Over the years, different engines have been employed, including a Ford 1172cc, British Leyland 948cc and finally, as part of the restoration, an MG 1250cc engine and gearbox have been fitted, along with 2 x SU carburettors, allowing for very spritely performance indeed.
In 2009, the MkVI was returned to the UK, imported by a known and respected Lotus restorer/dealer before passing to its’ current owner in 2011 where it has formed part of a Lotus collection, having covered no more than 500 miles whilst in his care.
It would not take much to return 964 XUU to the track, with the replacement of a few date-expired components probably being the majority of the requirements and the vehicle would be welcomed at many historic events on this side of the ocean. Alternatively it would make for a great road vehicle, with the MG engine very sweetly starting at the first time of asking before settling in to a very gentle idle.
As previously mentioned, there is a huge portfolio of paperwork and images with the vehicle, dating back to the early 1980s. The vehicle is known to the Historic Lotus Register and is only offered today due to a relocation by its owner.
Buy with confidence – Guy Munday has over thirty years of marque experience. Located in South Norfolk – the home of Lotus.
For further information and to arrange a viewing, please call 07718 385168 at any time – evenings and weekends always a pleasure.
Many thanks for looking!
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