Lotus Excel SE
Toyota engaged Lotus for the technical development of the Supra. During this period, Toyota became a major shareholder in Lotus, but later sold its shares when General Motors acquired Lotus. Part of the agreement between Lotus and Toyota was the use of many mechanical parts from Toyota in the Lotus cars. The original Excel (the Éclat Excel) used the W58 manual gearbox, driveshafts, rear differential, 14x7 inch alloy wheels, and door handles from the A60 Supra. The engine was the well-known all-aluminum DOHC 2,2-liter Lotus 912 inline four-cylinder engine, which was also used in the Lotus Esprit S3 and produced 160 hp (119 kW; 162 PS). The bodywork was made of vacuum-injected resin and consisted of an upper and lower half joined together, as evidenced by a black trim strip around the car. The bodywork was mounted on a galvanized steel chassis. This manufacturing process gave the car good structural rigidity.
Toyota enlisted Lotus for the technical development of the Supra. During this period, Toyota became a major shareholder in Lotus, but later sold its shares when General Motors acquired Lotus.
Part of the agreement between Lotus and Toyota was the use of many mechanical parts from Toyota in the Lotus cars. The original Excel (the Éclat Excel) used the W58 manual gearbox, driveshafts, rear differential, 14×7 inch alloy wheels, and door handles from the A60 Supra. The engine was the well-known all-aluminum DOHC 2,2-liter Lotus 912 inline four-cylinder engine, which was also used in the Lotus Esprit S3 and produced 160 hp (119 kW; 162 PS).
The body was made of vacuum-injected resin and consisted of a top and bottom half that were joined together, as evidenced by a black trim strip around the body. The body was mounted on a galvanized steel chassis. This production process gave the car good structural rigidity.
Lotus Éclat Excel
The Excel is also known for its handling and steering, thanks to its 50:50 weight distribution. A reported 413 units were registered in the UK as of 2024.
In October 1985, for the 1986 model year, the SE trim became available, paired with the more powerful HC (High Compression) engine. The engine's power increased to 180 hp (134 kW; 182 PS), and red camshaft covers further distinguished it from the standard engine. Other changes included a higher compression ratio of 10,9:1, intake camshafts with increased valve lift, and larger intake and exhaust valves. Torque was marginally increased to 224 Nm (170 lb-ft), and the engine was fed by twin 45 mm Dellorto carburetors with dual throttle bodies. The dashboard and controls were modified on all Excel models, as were an upgraded air conditioning system (an extra-cost option) and a standard tilt-adjustable steering column. The standard Excel remained available alongside the more expensive SE.
This car presented here is a Lotus delivered in Germany. It had three owners there, the last of whom was the German Ambassador to Thailand. The last Dutch owner was a collector of Lotuses and racing cars. The car was always very well maintained there, resulting in a very smooth-running Lotus Excel. So, if you are looking for a perfectly driving Excel, you should come and take a look at this one.