Specifications
| Engine | In-line 4-cylinder, 2174cc |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | 5-speed manual |
| Body Work | Coupe |
| Colour | Red |
| Interior | Beige |
| Trim | Cloth |
| Wheels | Cast alloy |
| Brakes | Discs |
Description
By the mid-1970s Lotus had outgrown its kit car roots, with a fully-fledged line-up of production models, while Colin Chapman's Formula One team continued to enjoy huge success on the track. In addition to the Esprit, itself a genuine Ferrari and Porsche rival, Lotus introduced a sophisticated wedge-shaped Grand Tourer known as the Type 75 Elite in 1974, followed by the Type 76 Eclat a couple of years later. Styled by talented designer Oliver Winterbottom, the two Lotus shared the same backbone chassis and independent suspension but the cheaper Eclat made do with a four-speed gearbox and steel wheels - nominally each was a four-seater but in reality only the Elite had any legroom for adults behind the front seats. Both were powered by a 16-valve 2-litre with a healthy 160 horsepower on tap, while the lightweight GRP bodywork ensured an excellent power to weight ratio. Over time the more conventionally attractive Eclat proved the more popular and Lotus concentrated their efforts on developing the model through the 1970s and beyond, adding more power and refinements like a five-speed gearbox, alloy wheels, air conditioning, power steering and electric windows. Both the Elite and Eclat were given a significant performance boost in 1980 with the introduction of the 2.2-litre engine in the latest S2 versions - although power output remained unchanged the torque spread was much improved. The chassis was now zinc coated to prevent rust and a new Getrag five-speed gearbox a welcome addition, and the option of a Borg-Warner automatic was available for the first time. Following on from the partnership between Lotus and Toyota in the early 1980s, the Eclat was given some further subtle revisions and renamed the Excel, with the Japanese manufacturer providing both a five-speed gearbox lifted from the Supra and stronger disc brakes. The styling was softened and the aerodynamic profile lowered to 0.32 CD, boosting fuel economy. In the face of strong demand, Lotus further enhanced the Excel's desirability in the mid-1980s by releasing the SE model with colour-coded bumpers, a rear spoiler and a new design of alloy wheels. Combining brilliant handling with excellent performance - the Excel could top 130 mph and complete the standing quarter-mile in just 15.4 seconds - the car remained a strong seller until its eventual replacement in 1989.
