Lotus 0-60 & Quarter Mile Times
Lotus Acceleration & Performance Data
Introducing Lotus 0-60 mph and Quarter Mile times for all models. Below, we have painstakingly collected and organized all the Lotus performance data we could get our hands on. Our data table and chart provides a comprehensive overview of each Lotus model's performance capabilities.
Summary / Performance Table / Performance Chart / Fastest Cars Ever
This page aims to put all of the performance metrics of Lotus' entire model range (both current and historic) in one place, providing enthusiasts and prospective buyers with valuable insights into each vehicle's acceleration capabilities. We know that 0-60 times don't tell us the full performance picture, but by reviewing 0-60 mph times at least you can get a benchmark for measuring a car's acceleration prowess, and the quarter mile times, which offer a glimpse into its straight-line speed, readers can gain a deeper understanding of Lotus' performance pedigree. Lotus, a British automaker renowned for its lightweight sports cars and racing heritage, has produced some of the fastest and most exhilarating vehicles over the decades. Known for its philosophy of "simplify, then add lightness," Lotus has consistently focused on engineering cars that deliver outstanding performance through a blend of agility, speed, and innovative design. Here’s a look at some of the fastest Lotus vehicles over the years and the brand’s broader performance credentials.
Lotus Esprit V8 (1996-2004): The Lotus Esprit V8 marked a significant milestone in Lotus’s history, showcasing the brand’s ability to compete with the supercar elite. Powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 350 horsepower, the Esprit V8 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 175 mph. Its lightweight chassis and advanced aerodynamics exemplified Lotus’s commitment to delivering high performance through engineering excellence and minimalism.
Lotus Exige S (2004-2011): The Exige S is a quintessential Lotus, embodying the brand’s focus on lightweight construction and precision handling. Featuring a supercharged 1.8-liter inline-four engine producing 220 horsepower, the Exige S could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.1 seconds and achieve a top speed of 148 mph. Its track-focused design, with aggressive aerodynamics and a stiff suspension, made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts and highlighted Lotus’s ability to create thrilling driving experiences.
Lotus Evora 400 (2015-2021): The Lotus Evora 400 brought a new level of performance to the brand’s lineup. Equipped with a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 400 horsepower, the Evora 400 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 186 mph. The Evora 400’s combination of power, lightweight construction, and advanced chassis tuning showcased Lotus’s dedication to creating a sports car that excels both on the road and the track.
Lotus Evija (2020-present): The Lotus Evija represents the pinnacle of Lotus’s engineering capabilities and its first foray into the world of electric hypercars. With four electric motors producing a combined output of 1,972 horsepower, the Evija can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds and achieve a top speed of over 200 mph. The Evija’s lightweight carbon fiber construction, advanced aerodynamics, and cutting-edge battery technology highlight Lotus’s commitment to innovation and performance in the electric era.
Lotus’s broader approach to performance is rooted in its racing heritage and philosophy of achieving speed through lightness and precision. The brand’s founder, Colin Chapman, believed that reducing weight was the key to enhancing performance, and this principle continues to guide Lotus’s engineering and design. By focusing on lightweight materials, minimalist design, and advanced aerodynamics, Lotus ensures that its cars offer exceptional handling, responsiveness, and driving pleasure. Moreover, Lotus has a storied history in motorsports, particularly in Formula 1, where it has achieved significant success. The technologies and insights gained from racing have directly influenced Lotus’s road cars, allowing the brand to incorporate advanced engineering solutions and performance enhancements into its production models. This connection to motorsport ensures that every Lotus vehicle benefits from the brand’s competitive spirit and pursuit of excellence. Lotus’s lineup of high-performance vehicles over the decades reflects the brand’s unwavering commitment to lightweight engineering, innovation, and driving purity. From the iconic Esprit V8 to the groundbreaking Evija, Lotus has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance while staying true to its core philosophy. The brand’s dedication to creating agile, responsive, and exhilarating cars ensures that Lotus remains a symbol of driving excellence and a leader in the world of high-performance sports cars.
Lotus 0-60 mph & Quarter Mile Times
Lotus models and their performance in terms of 0-60 mph and quarter-mile acceleration times. Narrow down your search via the filters.
ID | Year | Make | Model | Full Model & Variant | Full Year, Model & Variant | 0-60 mph | 1/4 Mile Time |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 1957 | Lotus | Lotus Elite | Lotus Elite Series 1 | 1957 Lotus Elite Series 1 | 11.90 | |
2 | 1958 | Lotus | Lotus Seven | Lotus Seven S2 | 1961 Lotus Seven S2 | 14.30 | 19.20 |
3 | 1964 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan 1600 | 1964 Lotus Elan 1600 | 7.80 | 16.30 |
4 | 1966 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan S2 | 1966 Lotus Elan S2 | 7.50 | 15.90 |
5 | 1967 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan SE | 1967 Lotus Elan SE | 7.90 | 16.10 |
6 | 1970 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan S4 SE | 1970 Lotus Elan S4 SE | 9.40 | 16.80 |
7 | 1970 | Lotus | Lotus Europa | Lotus Europa S2 | 1970 Lotus Europa S2 | 9.30 | 16.70 |
8 | 1971 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan Sprint | 1971 Lotus Elan Sprint | 8.40 | 16.00 |
9 | 1973 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan +2 S130 | 1973 Lotus Elan +2 S130 | 9.80 | 17.60 |
10 | 1973 | Lotus | Lotus Europa | Lotus Europa S2 (U.S. Spec) | 1973 Lotus Europa S2 (U.S. Spec) | 9.60 | 17.00 |
11 | 1974 | Lotus | Lotus Europa | Lotus Europa S1 | 1974 Lotus Europa S1 | 9.30 | 16.90 |
12 | 1975 | Lotus | Lotus Elite | Lotus Elite | 1975 Lotus Elite | 11.10 | 18.40 |
13 | 1977 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit S1 | 1977 Lotus Esprit S1 | 9.60 | 17.30 |
14 | 1984 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Turbo Esprit | 1984 Lotus Turbo Esprit | 6.00 | 14.50 |
15 | 1987 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Turbo Esprit HC | 1987 Lotus Turbo Esprit HC | 5.70 | 14.70 |
16 | 1988 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit Turbo | 1988 Lotus Esprit Turbo | 5.40 | 13.80 |
17 | 1989 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan M100 SE | 1989 Lotus Elan M100 SE | 6.60 | 14.70 |
18 | 1990 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan M100 | 1990 Lotus Elan M100 | 7.60 | 16.10 |
19 | 1990 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit Turbo SE | 1990 Lotus Esprit Turbo SE | 4.60 | 13.20 |
20 | 1991 | Lotus | Lotus Carlton | Lotus Carlton | 1991 Lotus Carlton | 5.10 | 13.50 |
21 | 1991 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan M100 SE | 1991 Lotus Elan M100 SE | 6.70 | 15.20 |
22 | 1991 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit Turbo X-180R | 1991 Lotus Esprit Turbo X-180R | 4.50 | 13.20 |
23 | 1992 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan SE | 1992 Lotus Elan SE | 6.60 | 15.20 |
24 | 1993 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit Turbo S4 | 1993 Lotus Esprit Turbo S4 | 4.70 | 13.10 |
25 | 1994 | Lotus | Lotus Elan | Lotus Elan M100 S2 | 1994 Lotus Elan M100 S2 | 6.70 | 15.30 |
26 | 1995 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit S4S | 1995 Lotus Esprit S4S | 4.40 | 13.00 |
27 | 1996 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise | 1996 Lotus Elise | 5.90 | 14.20 |
28 | 1996 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit GT3 | 1996 Lotus Esprit GT3 | 5.30 | 13.60 |
29 | 1997 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise | 1997 Lotus Elise | 5.50 | 14.20 |
30 | 1997 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise GT1 | 1997 Lotus Elise GT1 | 3.80 | 11.70 |
31 | 1997 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit V8 | 1997 Lotus Esprit V8 | 4.40 | 12.70 |
32 | 1998 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit V8 | 1998 Lotus Esprit V8 | 4.40 | 12.90 |
33 | 1999 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise Sport 135 | 1999 Lotus Elise Sport 135 | 5.70 | 14.50 |
34 | 1999 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise Sport 350 | 1999 Lotus Elise Sport 350 | 4.60 | 12.80 |
35 | 1999 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit S350 | 1999 Lotus Esprit S350 | 4.30 | 13.00 |
36 | 2000 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige | 2000 Lotus Exige | 5.30 | 13.80 |
37 | 2001 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Sun International Elise Type R | 2001 Sun International Elise Type R | 4.60 | 13.40 |
38 | 2002 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise 111S | 2002 Lotus Elise 111S | 4.90 | 14.00 |
39 | 2003 | Lotus | Lotus Esprit | Lotus Esprit V8 | 2003 Lotus Esprit V8 | 4.30 | 12.70 |
40 | 2005 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise Sport Package | 2005 Lotus Elise Sport Package | 4.60 | 13.40 |
41 | 2005 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise | 2005 Lotus Elise | 4.50 | 13.20 |
42 | 2005 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Force Fed Lotus Elise | 2005 Force Fed Lotus Elise | 4.00 | 12.50 |
43 | 2006 | Lotus | Lotus Europa | Lotus Europa S | 2006 Lotus Europa S | 5.30 | 14.20 |
44 | 2006 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige S | 2006 Lotus Exige S | 4.20 | 12.80 |
45 | 2006 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige | 2006 Lotus Exige | 4.70 | 13.30 |
46 | 2007 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise | 2007 Lotus Elise | 4.80 | 13.60 |
47 | 2007 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige S | 2007 Lotus Exige S | 4.00 | 12.60 |
48 | 2008 | Lotus | Lotus 2-Eleven | Lotus 2-Eleven | 2008 Lotus 2-Eleven | 3.70 | 12.00 |
49 | 2008 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise SC | 2008 Lotus Elise SC | 4.50 | 13.30 |
50 | 2008 | Lotus | Lotus Europa | Lotus Europa SE | 2008 Lotus Europa SE | 5.40 | 14.80 |
51 | 2008 | Lotus | Lotus Europa | Lotus Europa Luxury Touring Edition | 2008 Lotus Europa Luxury Touring Edition | 4.60 | 14.10 |
52 | 2008 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige S 240 | 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 | 4.00 | 12.70 |
53 | 2009 | Lotus | Lotus 2-Eleven | Lotus 2-Eleven GT4 Supersport | 2009 Lotus 2-Eleven GT4 Supersport | 3.70 | 12.00 |
54 | 2009 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige S 260 | 2009 Lotus Exige S 260 | 4.20 | 12.80 |
55 | 2010 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora 2+2 | 2010 Lotus Evora 2+2 | 4.90 | 13.50 |
56 | 2010 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora | 2010 Lotus Evora | 5.00 | 13.50 |
57 | 2011 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise SC | 2011 Lotus Elise SC | 4.40 | 13.30 |
58 | 2011 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora S | 2011 Lotus Evora S | 4.40 | 12.80 |
59 | 2011 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige S 260 | 2011 Lotus Exige S 260 | 4.10 | 13.00 |
60 | 2012 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora (IPS) | 2012 Lotus Evora (IPS) | 4.90 | 13.40 |
61 | 2013 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora S 2+2 (IPS) | 2013 Lotus Evora S 2+2 (IPS) | 4.60 | 13.00 |
62 | 2013 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora S Sports Racer | 2013 Lotus Evora S Sports Racer | 4.30 | 12.60 |
63 | 2013 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid | 2013 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid | 4.20 | |
64 | 2013 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige S Roadster | 2013 Lotus Exige S Roadster | 3.70 | 12.60 |
65 | 2014 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise S Club Racer | 2014 Lotus Elise S Club Racer | 4.60 | 13.30 |
66 | 2015 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige 360 Cup | 2015 Lotus Exige 360 Cup | 3.70 | |
67 | 2016 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise Cup 250 | 2016 Lotus Elise Cup 250 | 3.80 | |
68 | 2016 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora Sport 410 (IPS) | 2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410 (IPS) | 4.00 | 12.40 |
69 | 2016 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora 400 | 2016 Lotus Evora 400 | 4.10 | 12.50 |
70 | 2016 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige Sport 350 | 2016 Lotus Exige Sport 350 | 3.80 | 12.30 |
71 | 2016 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige Sport 380 | 2016 Lotus Exige Sport 380 | 3.60 | 13.10 |
72 | 2016 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige V6 Cup R | 2016 Lotus Exige V6 Cup R | 3.70 | 12.30 |
73 | 2017 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise Sprint 220 | 2017 Lotus Elise Sprint 220 | 4.30 | 13.40 |
74 | 2017 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora GT430 (IPS) | 2017 Lotus Evora GT430 (IPS) | 3.60 | 12.40 |
75 | 2017 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige Cup 430 | 2017 Lotus Exige Cup 430 | 3.20 | 11.80 |
76 | 2018 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora GT430 | 2018 Lotus Evora GT430 | 3.70 | 12.40 |
77 | 2018 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige Sport 410 | 2018 Lotus Exige Sport 410 | 3.30 | 11.80 |
78 | 2020 | Lotus | Lotus Evora | Lotus Evora GT | 2020 Lotus Evora GT | 3.90 | 12.20 |
79 | 2021 | Lotus | Lotus Elise | Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition | 2021 Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition | 4.10 | 13.50 |
80 | 2021 | Lotus | Lotus Exige | Lotus Exige Sport 390 Final Edition | 2021 Lotus Exige Sport 390 Final Edition | 3.70 | |
81 | 2024 | Lotus | Lotus Eletre | Lotus Eletre R | 2024 Lotus Eletre R | 2.80 | 10.50 |
82 | 2024 | Lotus | Lotus Eletre | Lotus Eletre | 2024 Lotus Eletre | 4.30 | 11.60 |
83 | 2024 | Lotus | Lotus Emira | Lotus Emira i4 | 2024 Lotus Emira i4 | 4.30 | 12.70 |
84 | 2024 | Lotus | Lotus Emira | Lotus Emira First Edition | 2024 Lotus Emira First Edition | 4.30 | 12.70 |
85 | 2024 | Lotus | Lotus Evija | Lotus Evija Electric Hypercar | 2024 Lotus Evija Electric Hypercar | 2.90 | 8.60 |
86 | 2025 | Lotus | Lotus Emira | Lotus Emira | 2025 Lotus Emira (Manual) | 4.30 | 12.70 |
87 | 2025 | Lotus | Lotus Evija | Lotus Evija | 2025 Lotus Evija | 2.80 | 8.60 |
88 | 2025 | Lotus | Lotus Eletre | Lotus Eletre | 2025 Lotus Eletre | 4.20 | 11.40 |
89 | 2025 | Lotus | Lotus Eletre | Lotus Eletre S | 2025 Lotus Eletre S | 3.50 | 10.80 |
90 | 2025 | Lotus | Lotus Eletre | Lotus Eletre R | 2025 Lotus Eletre R | 2.70 | 10.30 |
Every Lotus Ranked From Fastest to Slowest
Below, we compare Lotus models and their performance. This table is filtered by the filters above, so feel free to narrow down your data set.
The Ten Fastest Lotus Cars
The Fastest Accelerating Lotus Cars Ever Made
1. 2024 Lotus Eletre R
0 - 60: 2.8 seconds / Quarter Mile: 10.5 seconds
Summary
The Lotus Eletre R is an all-electric hyper-SUV that breaks the mold and redefines what an SUV can achieve in terms of performance. While SUVs are typically associated with practicality and comfort, Lotus has injected its racing DNA into the Eletre R, creating a vehicle that is both incredibly fast and surprisingly agile.
At the heart of this electrifying SUV lies a dual-motor powertrain that generates a mind-boggling 905 horsepower and 726 lb-ft of torque. This immense power allows the Eletre R to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, making it one of the quickest SUVs in the world. Its top speed is electronically limited to 165 mph, but it's clear that this SUV has the potential to go much faster.
The Eletre R's performance isn't just about straight-line speed. Lotus has engineered a sophisticated suspension system with active anti-roll bars, air springs, and continuous damping control that keeps the SUV planted and composed even when pushed to its limits. Its all-wheel drive system and torque vectoring technology further enhance its handling capabilities, allowing it to carve corners with the agility of a much smaller sports car. The Eletre R is a testament to Lotus's engineering prowess, proving that an SUV can be both practical and incredibly fun to drive.
2. 2024 Lotus Evija
0 - 60: 2.9 seconds / Quarter Mile: 8.6 seconds
Summary
The Lotus Evija is a groundbreaking all-electric hypercar that represents a new era for the legendary British automaker. With its striking design, cutting-edge technology, and mind-boggling performance, the Evija is a testament to Lotus's commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the automotive world.
Underneath its aerodynamically sculpted body, the Evija houses four electric motors, one for each wheel, that produce a combined output of over 1972 horsepower and 1254 lb-ft of torque. This immense power allows the Evija to achieve truly astonishing performance figures. It can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of over 200 mph. This places the Evija firmly in the realm of the fastest production cars on the planet.
But the Evija's performance is not just about raw power. It's also about precision and control. The car's advanced torque vectoring system, active aerodynamics, and lightweight carbon fiber construction all contribute to its exceptional handling and agility. Its battery pack, located behind the seats for optimal weight distribution, also lowers the car's center of gravity, further enhancing its stability and responsiveness. The Evija is not just a technological marvel; it's also a driver's car that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience behind the wheel.
3. 2017 Lotus Exige Cup 430
0 - 60: 3.2 seconds / Quarter Mile: 11.8 seconds
Summary
The 2017 Lotus Exige Cup 430 is the most extreme and track-focused iteration of the iconic Exige model, representing the pinnacle of Lotus's lightweight performance philosophy. With its aggressive aerodynamics, uncompromising suspension setup, and a supercharged V6 engine, this car is designed to dominate circuits and deliver an unforgettable driving experience.
At the heart of the Cup 430 lies a 3.5-liter supercharged V6 engine sourced from the Evora GT430, producing a monstrous 430 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This power is channeled through a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, propelling the lightweight car from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 3.2 seconds. Its top speed of 180 mph is made possible by its aerodynamically optimized bodywork, which generates a remarkable 220 kg of downforce, keeping the car glued to the track.
The Cup 430's performance is not just about raw power. It boasts a track-tuned suspension with three-way adjustable Nitron dampers and Eibach adjustable anti-roll bars, allowing for precise customization to suit different driving styles and track conditions. The car also features large AP Racing brakes with forged four-piston calipers, providing exceptional stopping power and fade resistance. The 2017 Lotus Exige Cup 430 is a purist's dream, a car that prioritizes driver engagement and feedback above all else. Its lightweight construction, powerful engine, and track-focused engineering make it one of the most exhilarating and capable sports cars on the planet.
4. 2017 Lotus Evora GT430 (IPS)
0 - 60: 3.6 seconds / Quarter Mile: 12.4 seconds
Summary
The 2017 Lotus Evora GT430 is a limited-edition, high-performance variant of the already impressive Evora sports car. Designed to deliver exceptional performance on both road and track, this model pushes the boundaries of what the Evora platform is capable of.
At the heart of the GT430 lies a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a potent 430 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. With the manual transmission, the GT430 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a super-quick 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 196 mph.
The GT430's performance isn't just about straight-line speed. It features a comprehensively revised aerodynamic package, including a large rear wing, front splitter, and diffuser, that generates an impressive amount of downforce, improving stability and grip at high speeds. The car's suspension has been reworked with adjustable Ohlins dampers and Eibach springs, allowing drivers to fine-tune the handling to their preferences. Additionally, the GT430 comes equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and AP Racing brakes for exceptional grip and stopping power. Inside, the GT430 boasts a driver-focused cockpit with lightweight carbon fiber seats and Alcantara trim, further emphasizing its performance-oriented nature. The 2017 Lotus Evora GT430 is a rare and exhilarating machine that delivers a truly unforgettable driving experience.
5. 2008 Lotus 2-Eleven
0 - 60: 3.7 seconds / Quarter Mile: 12.0 seconds
Summary
The 2008 Lotus 2-Eleven is a raw, exhilarating, and unapologetically track-focused machine that embodies the essence of Lotus's lightweight performance philosophy. Stripped down to the bare essentials, this open-cockpit sports car prioritizes agility, responsiveness, and pure driving pleasure above all else.
At its heart lies a supercharged 1.8-liter inline-four engine sourced from Toyota, producing 252 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. While these figures might seem modest, the 2-Eleven's featherlight weight of just 670 kg (1,477 lb) results in a remarkable power-to-weight ratio. This allows it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 mph, making it the fastest production Lotus ever at the time of its release.
The 2-Eleven's performance isn't just about straight-line speed. Its aerodynamically optimized bodywork, adjustable suspension, and sticky Yokohama Advan Neova AD07 LTS tires provide exceptional grip and handling, making it a true weapon on the track. Its minimalist design, with no roof or windshield, further enhances the visceral driving experience, allowing the driver to feel every sensation of speed and acceleration. The 2-Eleven is a car that demands skill and rewards those who can tame it, delivering a pure and unfiltered connection between driver and machine.
6. 2013 Lotus Exige S Roadster
0 - 60: 3.7 seconds / Quarter Mile: 12.6 seconds
Summary
The 2013 Lotus Exige S Roadster is a thrilling open-top sports car that embodies the essence of lightweight performance and driving pleasure. With its removable soft top, it offers the exhilaration of open-air motoring while retaining the razor-sharp handling and agility that Lotus is renowned for.
At the heart of the Exige S Roadster lies a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine sourced from Toyota, producing a potent 345 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This power is channeled to the rear wheels through a precise six-speed manual transmission, allowing the car to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 145 mph to ensure the stability of the soft top.
The Exige S Roadster's performance isn't just about straight-line speed. Its lightweight aluminum chassis, sport-tuned suspension, and sticky Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires provide exceptional grip and handling, making it a true corner-carving machine. The car's direct steering and communicative feedback through the chassis create an engaging and immersive driving experience that few cars can match.
While the Exige S Roadster prioritizes performance, it doesn't completely sacrifice comfort. Its interior features supportive sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a simple yet functional dashboard. With the roof down, the open-air experience is exhilarating, allowing drivers to fully immerse themselves in the sound of the V6 engine and the thrill of driving a lightweight sports car.
7. 2018 Lotus Evora GT430
0 - 60: 3.7 seconds / Quarter Mile: 12.4 seconds
Summary
The 2018 Lotus Evora GT430 is an extreme and exhilarating expression of Lotus's performance philosophy, pushing the boundaries of what a road-legal sports car can achieve. With its aggressive aerodynamics, track-focused enhancements, and a potent supercharged engine, the GT430 delivers breathtaking performance and an unforgettable driving experience.
Under the hood, the GT430 houses a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine derived from Toyota, but meticulously tuned by Lotus to unleash 430 horsepower and 440 Nm of torque. This power is channeled through a six-speed manual transmission, propelling the lightweight car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Its top speed, depending on the configuration, ranges from an impressive 190 mph (with the aerodynamic package) to an even more astonishing 196 mph (without the aero kit).
The GT430's performance isn't just about straight-line speed. It boasts a comprehensively revised aerodynamic package, generating up to 250 kg of downforce at its maximum velocity, which ensures exceptional stability and grip at high speeds. Its track-tuned suspension, adjustable dampers, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires further enhance its handling prowess, making it a true weapon on the track. Inside, the GT430 is driver-focused, with lightweight carbon fiber seats and a minimalist interior that emphasizes the car's performance-oriented nature.
8. 1997 Lotus Elise GT1
0 - 60: 3.8 seconds / Quarter Mile: 11.7 seconds
Summary
The 1997 Lotus Elise GT1 was an ambitious project born from Lotus's desire to compete in the FIA GT Championship's top GT1 class. It was a homologation special, with a limited number of road cars produced to meet regulations. The Elise GT1 was a stark departure from the small, nimble Elise sports car it was based on, evolving into a larger and more powerful beast built for racing.
Underneath its elongated bodywork, the Elise GT1 initially featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V8 engine developed for the Lotus Esprit GT1 race car. However, due to performance issues, this engine was quickly replaced with a modified Chevrolet LT5 V8, a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter engine found in the Corvette ZR-1. In the Elise GT1, this engine was enlarged to 6.0 liters and produced well over 600 horsepower with the mandatory intake restrictors.
The Elise GT1's performance was certainly impressive, capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in around 3.8 seconds and reaching a top speed exceeding 200 mph. However, despite its power and Lotus's renowned handling expertise, the car struggled to compete with established rivals like the McLaren F1 GTR and Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. It faced reliability issues and lacked the overall competitiveness needed to dominate the GT1 class.
Despite its short-lived racing career, the 1997 Lotus Elise GT1 remains a fascinating and rare supercar that embodies the brand's ambition and engineering capabilities. Its powerful engine, aerodynamic design, and lightweight construction showcase Lotus's commitment to pushing boundaries and creating exhilarating performance machines.
9. 2016 Lotus Elise Cup 250
0 - 60: 3.8 seconds / Quarter Mile: N/A seconds
Summary
The 2016 Lotus Elise Cup 250 is a track-focused marvel, a lightweight and agile sports car designed to deliver pure driving thrills. As a limited-edition variant of the iconic Elise, the Cup 250 takes performance to the next level, boasting a range of enhancements that make it a formidable contender on any circuit.
Under the hood, a supercharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, sourced from Toyota, roars to life, generating an impressive 243 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This power is channeled through a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, propelling the feather-light Elise Cup 250 from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. While it may not have the outright power of some larger sports cars, its exceptional power-to-weight ratio and aerodynamic design allow it to achieve a top speed of 154 mph.
But the Elise Cup 250's true strength lies in its handling. Its lightweight chassis, sport-tuned suspension, and sticky Yokohama Advan A052 tires provide unparalleled grip and agility, allowing it to dance through corners with remarkable precision. Its unassisted steering provides pure feedback, giving the driver a direct connection to the road. The car's minimalist interior, stripped down to save weight, further enhances the sense of focus and purpose.
The Elise Cup 250 is a driver's car in its purest form, a machine that demands skill and rewards those who can master it. Its raw performance, razor-sharp handling, and visceral driving experience make it a true gem in the world of lightweight sports cars.
10. 2020 Lotus Evora GT
0 - 60: 3.9 seconds / Quarter Mile: 12.2 seconds
Summary
The 2020 Lotus Evora GT is a thrilling sports car that epitomizes the brand's philosophy of lightweight performance and driver engagement. Its sleek and aerodynamic design not only looks stunning but also contributes to its impressive handling and agility. Under the hood lies a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing a potent 416 horsepower and up to 332 lb-ft of torque depending on transmission choice.
This power is channeled to the rear wheels through either a precise six-speed manual transmission or a quick-shifting six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. With the manual gearbox, the Evora GT can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, while the automatic shaves off a few tenths of a second. The car's top speed is 188 mph, making it a truly capable performer on the open road or the racetrack.
The Evora GT's performance isn't just about raw power and speed. Its lightweight chassis, balanced weight distribution, and responsive steering make it a joy to drive on winding roads. The car feels incredibly nimble and agile, with excellent feedback through the steering wheel and pedals, giving the driver a sense of connection with the machine. The Evora GT is a true driver's car that rewards skill and precision, making every drive an exhilarating experience.