Lotus Excel

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Launched in 1982, the Lotus Excel was a development of the earlier Eclat and shared the same well-proven 2.2-litre DOHC slant four that had also been used in the Esprit.

Producing some 160bhp, it could propel the lightweight car to 60 in just 7.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 135mph. As with all Lotus cars, it was the handling that really impressed and it could run rings around other more powerful sports cars thanks to its superb agility.

Unlike many of its predeccesors however, the Excel was also remarkably well built thanks to a joint venture with Toyota which saw Lotus sharing their chassis know-how in exchange for some Japanese reliability.

This meant the Excel shared its five-speed gearbox, drive-train, VDO instruments and electrics plus various other items with the bomb-proof Toyota Supra. It also had a fully galvanized steel backbone chassis and a spacious interior that could accommodate four occupants and their luggage with ease. Add in the rust-free glassfibre bodywork and an integral steel roll cage, and it made for a very safe and sporting family carriage. Just 2,160 examples were made in all before production came to an end in 1992.

This 1990 Excel is from the property of a deceased and was last MOT-tested in 2014 when it passed with no advisory notices. The car has not been driven much since, and has been in storage, although has been checked over by a garage and declared to be in good condition. The new vendor would be wise to go over the car before using it on the road or taking it to MOT (although he can be assured that the body has not rusted).

The car is very presentable inside and out and has an interesting number-plate. This Excel offers a bargain basement entry into Lotus ownership and deserves close inspection.