The latest addition to the Exige range is a genuine thoroughbred sportscar which brings a new interpretation to the term extreme performance. Its 121.4 bhp per litre output places it among the most powerful production vehicles in existence for its engine size. More importantly, it now carries full approval for all target markets.
Impressive performance is enhanced by the Exige S’s strong yet lightweight design (only 2057 lbs) – its power to weight ratio is 233.2 bhp/tonne. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is achieved in 4.1 seconds and 0-100 mph in an estimated 9.98 seconds. Its top speed is 148 mph, equipping the Exige S with an outstanding combination of performance and fuel economy.
As with all Lotus models, road handling and circuit racing ability outweigh straight-line performance. The Exige S is hard to match in terms of agility, safety and speed. Yet this Lotus is more than an exceptional track car. It is equally comfortable on country roads and motorways, as well as in urban conditions. The superior torque of the engine and the traditional soft springs and firm dampers of the Lotus suspension provide precise handling and a comfortable ride.
As Clive Dopson, Managing Director of Lotus Cars, explains, “The Exige S represents the ultimate ‘extreme’ production Lotus… It’s an unbeatable package and an unbeatable drive.”
The claim that “nothing drives like a Lotus” is genuinely vindicated by the Exige S.
The Engine
The Lotus Exige S carries a Roots-type supercharger and intercooler with its 1.8 litre, 4-cylinder 2ZZ-GE VVTL-i powerhouse. The supercharger and intercooler combination, originally developed for the Lotus Sport Exige 240R, equip the Exige S with a peak output of 218 bhp at 7,800 rpm. Torque peaks at 158.6 lb/ft at 5,500 rpm, although 80% of maximum torque is produced at just 2,000 rpm.
The air intake and roof have been redesigned to ensure the efficient functionality of the intercooler in all conditions and weathers. The rear of the vehicle sports a single, central, oval exhaust.
Chassis and design
The Lotus Exige S’s aluminium chassis tub is the same as that used in the Exige – award winning and revolutionary, featuring a featherweight steel sub frame. The tub itself weighs in at only 150 lbs, with a rigidity of 10,500 Nm/degree.
The Exige S’s attractive and efficient body also remains unaltered from its Exige predecessor. However, colour coding of the rear wing, side air inlets and front splitter set the Exige S apart from its close relative.
Lotus currently does not intend to release the Exige S on the North American market.
© 2006 Martin Hemmings and Sandino for www.sport-cars.org
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