Whither the Excel? Keith_Adams___ on Lotus' forgotten treasure
Parkers editor Keith Adams reflects...this week – it’s exactly the kind of vehicle that Lotus needs to survive and prosper in the post-2030 world. Yes, there’s been much wailing and gnashing of teeth from enthusiasts second guessing what Colin Chapman might have thought – despite the world from which he departed in 1982 was rather a different place to what it is now.
It was lovely that this car was rolled out at the prestigious and forward-facing launch. Right now, it might be a forgotten entity in the eyes of most enthusiasts, but in many ways, it was the car that ushered in an exciting new for Lotus. Launched in October 1982, this was the last Lotus to be launched during Colin Chapman’s lifetime, and at the end of a period of financial hardship for the company.
I reckon Lotus ended up with the better end of the deal, because dipping into Toyota’s parts bin really lifted the Excel. It gained a Toyota five-speed gearbox, along with its differential, driveshafts, and disc brakes. At the same time, the rear suspension was modified to incorporate the Esprit’s top link and lower wishbone layout in place of the Elite’s Chapman strut.
As the 1980s progressed, Lotus continually improved the Excel – and it would beat its German rival in twin tests time after time. Yes, the Porsche was better made, had a more solid interior, and was more usable, but the Lotus continued to deliver tactility, delicacy and balance in a way that the admittedly excellent 944 couldn’t.
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