Lotus fans in the United States had to give up the Elise and Exige years ago when the vehicles no longer met safety ratings to be sold in the States. In Europe, Lotus fans have been able to get increasingly awesome versions of the Elise and Exige going on for more than two decades for each model. Lotus has announced that the two iconic sports cars are going out of production, and to celebrate it has announced the Final Edition models.
Final Edition Models
There will be two versions of the Elise and three versions of the Exige. Each of the models will have unique paint colors, new exterior decals, new wheel finishes, new trim, and Final Edition badging. Some of the models have more power than have been offered in the past.
The models include the Elise Sport 240, Elise Cup 250, Exige Sport 390, Exige Sport 420, and Exige Cup 430. Pricing in the UK is £45,500, £50,900, £64,000, £79,900, and £100,600 respectively. The cars are available to purchase in the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Switzerland, and in the Eurozone.
Performance and Features
The Elise Sport 240 and Elise Cup 250 are the final iterations of the beloved Elise. The Elise Sport 240 features a 1.8-liter supercharged engine producing 240 horsepower, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The Elise Cup 250, on the other hand, is designed for those who crave a more track-focused experience. It boasts a more aggressive aerodynamic package and a lightweight construction, making it a formidable contender on the racetrack.
The Exige lineup is equally impressive. The Exige Sport 390 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 397 horsepower, enabling it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. The Exige Sport 420 takes things up a notch with 420 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.3 seconds. Finally, the Exige Cup 430 is the ultimate track weapon, featuring a 430-horsepower engine and a host of performance enhancements that make it a true driver’s car.
Each of these Final Edition models comes with a range of unique features and enhancements. The new paint colors and exterior decals give the cars a distinctive look, while the new wheel finishes and trim add a touch of sophistication. The Final Edition badging serves as a reminder of the legacy of these iconic sports cars.
Legacy and Impact
The Elise and Exige have left an indelible mark on the automotive world. Since their introduction, these cars have been celebrated for their lightweight construction, exceptional handling, and pure driving experience. They have become icons in the world of sports cars, earning a dedicated following of enthusiasts and collectors.
The decision to end production of the Elise and Exige marks the end of an era for Lotus. However, it also signals the beginning of a new chapter for the company. Lotus is now focusing on the development of new models that will continue to uphold the brand’s reputation for performance and innovation. The upcoming Lotus Emira, for example, promises to be a worthy successor to the Elise and Exige, offering a blend of modern technology and classic Lotus driving dynamics.
The Final Edition models of the Elise and Exige are a fitting tribute to these legendary sports cars. They celebrate the rich history and enduring appeal of the Elise and Exige, while also paving the way for the future of Lotus. For fans and collectors, these Final Edition models represent a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. As Lotus moves forward, the legacy of the Elise and Exige will continue to inspire and influence the world of sports cars for years to come.
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