Type 111 · two-seat coupé
Lotus Exige Series 1
2000–2002
- Years
- 2000–2002
- Engine
- 1.8 Rover K-series VHPD
- Power
- 177–190 bhp
- Weight
- about 780 kg
The first Exige was the road-going version of the Sport Elise race car: a fixed-roof coupé with a roof scoop, wider arches, a front splitter and a large rear wing. It used the Very High Performance Derivative of the K-series, making 177 bhp, or 190 bhp in a louder, less tractable track tune.
Around 600 were built in two years, which makes it the rarest mainstream model in this family. It is raw even by Elise standards, with close-ratio gears, firm suspension and very little sound insulation between you and the engine.
Variants
| Variant | Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exige | 2000–2002 | 177 bhp VHPD engine. |
| Exige 190 | 2000–2002 | 190 bhp option with a more aggressive map. |
On a road trip
A collector's car now, and an intense way to cross an alpine pass. The VHPD engine is highly strung and needs a specialist's care. Rear visibility is minimal and the cabin is hot, so it suits short, memorable drives more than long tours.
What to check
- Engine history above all: the VHPD needs meticulous maintenance, and many have been rebuilt or replaced.
- Originality of body panels, which are specific to the model and scarce.
- Signs of race or track damage.