John et al,
If the originallity of this car can be established through
the historical records, I don't think that an unoriginal
or altered VIN plate will hurt the value that much.
Replacement plates are available, and are acceptable, both
for registration and recordkeeping, unless, of course, there
already is a Caterham, or other car with the matching numbers,
registered with John Watson, as the original.
Gene,
Did you notice my VIN (SB1825)? It must have been manufactured
next to yours (SB1824), and may have left the factory on the
same truck.
My Sevens long lost twin-brother (or sister)!
I'd like to compare specifications some time.
-- Flemming Larsen, SB1825/B1644
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-chapman-era@autox.team.net
> [mailto:owner-chapman-era@autox.team.net]On Behalf Of
> gene.carter@grassvalleygroup.com
> Sent: Friday, August 04, 2000 13:01
> To: chapman-era@autox.team.net
> Subject: re: Early Seven
>
>
> John,
>
> I think Steven and Fleming are right on the mark about this
> particular car -
> an original Lotus Seven with updated parts. In regard to the
> Lotus chassis
> (VIN) plate, if the car shipped from Lotus as a kit, the plate said Lotus
> Components. If it shipped as an assembled car, the plate said Lotus Cars.
> Dave Bean Engineering sells blank replica plates that say Lotus
> Components.
> Perhaps John Watson can find the original specifications on frame 1135 to
> see if it shipped as a kit or assembled. Still I think the chassis plate
> question hurts the value of this car. If you've driven the car and really
> like it, then make an offer on the low end of the scale - perhaps
> $9-11,000
> (assuming that's less than the dealer is asking). Otherwise, if you have
> the money to spend and want a faster, nicer car then look for a 1500cc
> Series 2. With the correct chassis plate, you'll have fewer worries about
> future value. As Keith Gustafson said, prices here could range
> from $17,000
> to $24,000 if the car is in good to excellent condition. Any way you go,
> they are fun cars that always attract attention!
>
> Gene
>
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