Lots Exige 260 - more power and even less weight

[St00k]

Full Press Release & Photo

LA Auto Show:
LOTUS LAUNCHES LIGHTER, MORE POWERFUL EXIGE 260

November 20, 2008

With a 17 hp bump in power and the removal of 50 lbs of weight, Lotus has once again improved upon the Exige. It’s actually hard to believe this car can get any better.

The new model will weigh just 2,020 lbs thanks to the extensive use of carbon fiber parts, including carbon for the front splitter, roof panel, rear engine cover, front access panels, side air intake ducts, rear spoiler, sill covers and even the top of the dash.


Lotus didn’t stop there, however, switching out many other parts on the car for lighter versions. These include a lightweight “motorsports” battery, lighter 12-spoke forged alloy wheels, a revised rear engine subframe, a lightweight flywheel, alloy piping for the supercharger and intercooler and a composite bulkhead panel that replaces the rear window.

The removal of weight will be even more noticeable with the addition of 17 more horsepower, which brings the total to 257 (260 PS). All 257 hp are available at a loft 8000 rpm and torque of 174 ft-lbs comes on at 6000 rpm.

As expected the price has also increased, to $74, 995, but it’s a small price to pay for a machine that is this capable.