SUSPENSION

Years ago, most people would simply swap to Lotus suspension for the lower ride height, but as with most parts they’re becoming hard to find now — and expensive. Fortunately, at the front end your existing disc brake struts can be converted to Lotus-spec easily and relatively affordably by GAZ, who can also supply matching springs and damper inserts.

Most however, prefer the modern approach of having their struts converted to coil-overs and inserts, giving adjustable ride height and damper stiffness. There are a few companies that can do this or you can attempt it yourself with an abutment kit.

Pressed-steel track control arms (TCAs) were fitted to many of the non-sport models, and where possible these should be swapped for the far-stronger cast items. New, standard-length cast arms are no longer available, but you can buy the longer Lotus ones from BakerGinn.

Adjustable track control arms, and eccentric top mounts will give some added adjustability and stability to the front end. There’s also a poly bush set for around to increase stiffness.

For the rear set-up there’s a range of different-sized lowering blocks to give you the desired look and drop, which can be done on the standard leaf springs.You can convert to single leaf springs donated from the 2.8i Capri which increase the wheelbase slightly and give added stability with some clever swapping of the spring eye bushes.

A matching pair of adjustable dampers can be had for around £200 (go for Lotus length on cars lowered 2 inches or more), while the axle can be more securely-located using the GT-style anti-tramp bars and brackets (now reproduced by Retro Ford) or an A-frame from Milton — both of these require the brackets to be welded on.