Elva - Elva Courier
The original Elva Courier sports car was built in 1958 fitted with the 1500cc MGA engine and gearbox which evolved into the Elva Mk2 when the larger 1588cc version of the engine became available. During the production of the Mk2 the rights to the Elva Courier was purchased by Trojan Ltd, (well known for building Heinkel bubble cars previously), who transferred production to their premises in Surrey, which also freed up Nicholls to concentrate fully on his Formula Junior and Mk4 sports race cars at the time, and other projects in the pipeline, which was his main interest.
While Frank Nichols was building his Elva Couriers the complete cars were sold abroad, mainly to the USA and the European mainland, with the cars listed in the UK in kit form. Once Trojan took over the Elva Couriers were only available as complete cars. The Courier Mk3 was a fixed head coupe with a fastback, which made for a spacious interior. The Mk4 which was available at the same time (1962 to 1963) had the option of magnesium wheels, independent rear suspension and disc brakes to all 4 wheels rather than just front wheels as on earlier Couriers. For the Courier Mk4 built from 1963 to 1967 the engine was now a 1800cc MGB unit, later with the Ford Kent engine (Cortina type) and even Lotus Twin cam engines.
Tyre sizes for the Elva Courier:
- The Elva Courier Mk1 and Courier Mk2 were fitted with 14 inch wheels and 5.20x14 tyre size, the equivalent of which is the 145R14 tyre size. Blockley produces and excellent example - full details below.
- Elva Courier Mk3 and Courier Mk4 were fitted with smaller 13 inch wheels and 5.60x13 tyre size, which is the equivalent radial 165R13 tyre size - Blockley produces an excellent 165HR13 tyre with period correct tread pattern offering exceptional handling - see full details below:
