Type 111 · two-seat coupé
Lotus Exige Series 2
2004–2011
- Years
- 2004–2011
- Engine
- 1.8 Toyota 2ZZ-GE, naturally aspirated or supercharged
- Power
- 189–257 bhp
- Weight
- about 875–935 kg
The Series 2 Exige was launched in 2004 on the Toyota-engined Elise platform, with bodywork that produces real downforce: about 41 kg at 100 mph. The first cars were naturally aspirated with 189 bhp.
In 2006 the Exige S added a Roots-type supercharger and an intercooler fed by the roof scoop, for 218 bhp. Power crept up through the 240 and 260 versions to 257 bhp, and the Cup cars added adjustable dampers, launch control and variable traction control.
It became the definitive track day car of its era, and it is the model most often seen in the Lotus Cup race series and on tarmac rallies.
Variants
| Variant | Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exige | 2004–2008 | 189 bhp naturally aspirated 2ZZ. |
| Exige S | 2006–2011 | 218 bhp supercharged; later S 240 and S 260. |
| Exige Cup 240 / Cup 260 | 2006–2011 | Track-focused, with roll cage options and lighter panels. |
| British GT, Sprint, Type 72 and others | 2005–2010 | Numbered special editions. |
On a road trip
Stiffer and louder than an Elise, with almost no rear view on intercooled cars, but the fixed roof makes it a better companion in bad weather. On a smooth pass like the Grossglockner it is superb. On rough roads a standard-suspension car is a better choice than a Cup.
What to check
- Evidence of heavy track use: check dampers, discs, wheel bearings and the underside for grounding.
- Intercooler and supercharger condition on S models.
- The same oil line, toe-link and clam checks as for the Elise S2.