top of page
A collection of images of classic Lotus cars, and cars that are likely to become classics, taken at numerous visits to car shows, motoring museums, motoring events and on the road when the opportunity arises.
This page was added to the website May 2023.
Lotus Cars Limited is a British automotive company headquartered in Norfolk, England which manufactures sports cars and racing cars noted for their light weight and fine handling characteristics.
Founded in 1948 by Colin Chapman.
1960
1960 Lotus Seven, 5264 AD
Image taken at Prestcott Hill Climb on 14th May 2023.
First registered 24th August 1960.
998cc petrol engine.
First registered 24th August 1960.
998cc petrol engine.
1960 Lotus Seven, 5264 AD
Image taken at Prestcott Hill Climb on 14th May 2023.
First registered 24th August 1960.
998cc petrol engine.
First registered 24th August 1960.
998cc petrol engine.
1962 Lotus Elite, 286 NMU
Image taken at Classic Cars on the Green, Bearsted on 23rd July, 2023.
First registered 22nd January, 1962.
1216cc petrol engine.
First registered 22nd January, 1962.
1216cc petrol engine.
1962 Lotus Elite, 286 NMU
Image taken at Classic Cars on the Green, Bearsted on 23rd July, 2023.
First registered 22nd January, 1962.
1216cc petrol engine.
First registered 22nd January, 1962.
1216cc petrol engine.
1962 Lotus Elite, 286 NMU
Image taken at Classic Cars on the Green, Bearsted on 23rd July, 2023.
First registered 22nd January, 1962.
1216cc petrol engine.
First registered 22nd January, 1962.
1216cc petrol engine.
1962 Lotus Elite, 286 NMU
Image taken at Classic Cars on the Green, Bearsted on 23rd July, 2023.
First registered 22nd January, 1962.
1216cc petrol engine.
First registered 22nd January, 1962.
1216cc petrol engine.
1965 Ford Cortina Lotus, HUR 318C
Image taken at Classics at the Museum Show, RAF Manston, Kent, on 15th August 2023.
First registered 13th May 1965.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 13th May 1965.
1558cc petrol engine.
1965 Ford Cortina Lotus, HUR 318C
Image taken at Classics at the Museum Show, RAF Manston, Kent, on 15th August 2023.
First registered 13th May 1965.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 13th May 1965.
1558cc petrol engine.
1965 Ford Cortina Lotus, HUR 318C
Image taken at Classics at the Museum Show, RAF Manston, Kent, on 15th August 2023.
First registered 13th May 1965.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 13th May 1965.
1558cc petrol engine.
1965 Ford Cortina Lotus, HUR 318C
Image taken at Classics at the Museum Show, RAF Manston, Kent, on 15th August 2023.
First registered 13th May 1965.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 13th May 1965.
1558cc petrol engine.
1965 Lotus Seven, UAP 803X
Image taken at The Great British Car Journey Museum on 15th May 2023.
DVLA records show first registered 1st June 1982.
1498cc petrol engine.
DVLA records show first registered 1st June 1982.
1498cc petrol engine.
1965 Lotus Seven, UAP 803X
Image taken at The Great British Car Journey Museum on 15th May 2023.
DVLA records show first registered 1st June 1982.
1498cc petrol engine.
DVLA records show first registered 1st June 1982.
1498cc petrol engine.
1965 Lotus Seven, UAP 803X
Image taken at The Great British Car Journey Museum on 15th May 2023.
DVLA records show first registered 1st June 1982.
1498cc petrol engine.
DVLA records show first registered 1st June 1982.
1498cc petrol engine.
1966 Ford Cortina Lotus, FUA 383D
Image taken at the NEC Classic Car Show on 8th November 2024.
Vehicle first registered on 25th March 1966.
1558cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Lotus Cortina is the commonly used term for the Ford Cortina Lotus, a high performance sports saloon, which was produced in the UK from 1963 to 1970 by Ford in collaboration with Lotus Cars. The original version, which was based on the Ford Cortina Mark I, was promoted by ford as the "Consul Cortina" developed by Lotus, with "Consul" later being dropped from the name.
There were 3,306 Mark I cars produced.
The car on show is a 1966 model - owner Kevin Mansell.
Kevin has owned this car since 1982 and has restored it 3 times in that period. The first time was not done to a great standard due to limited funds. The 3rd restoration was finished around 4 years ago and was properly funded to bring it to the standard it is today.
During the 1st and 3rd restoration the car was used for track days and sprint meetings as well as a daily road car.
Since the final restoration the car now covers around 2,000 miles a year being used whenever possible.
Vehicle first registered on 25th March 1966.
1558cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Lotus Cortina is the commonly used term for the Ford Cortina Lotus, a high performance sports saloon, which was produced in the UK from 1963 to 1970 by Ford in collaboration with Lotus Cars. The original version, which was based on the Ford Cortina Mark I, was promoted by ford as the "Consul Cortina" developed by Lotus, with "Consul" later being dropped from the name.
There were 3,306 Mark I cars produced.
The car on show is a 1966 model - owner Kevin Mansell.
Kevin has owned this car since 1982 and has restored it 3 times in that period. The first time was not done to a great standard due to limited funds. The 3rd restoration was finished around 4 years ago and was properly funded to bring it to the standard it is today.
During the 1st and 3rd restoration the car was used for track days and sprint meetings as well as a daily road car.
Since the final restoration the car now covers around 2,000 miles a year being used whenever possible.
1966 Ford Cortina Lotus, FUA 383D
Image taken at the NEC Classic Car Show on 8th November 2024.
Vehicle first registered on 25th March 1966.
1558cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Lotus Cortina is the commonly used term for the Ford Cortina Lotus, a high performance sports saloon, which was produced in the UK from 1963 to 1970 by Ford in collaboration with Lotus Cars. The original version, which was based on the Ford Cortina Mark I, was promoted by ford as the "Consul Cortina" developed by Lotus, with "Consul" later being dropped from the name.
There were 3,306 Mark I cars produced.
The car on show is a 1966 model - owner Kevin Mansell.
Kevin has owned this car since 1982 and has restored it 3 times in that period. The first time was not done to a great standard due to limited funds. The 3rd restoration was finished around 4 years ago and was properly funded to bring it to the standard it is today.
During the 1st and 3rd restoration the car was used for track days and sprint meetings as well as a daily road car.
Since the final restoration the car now covers around 2,000 miles a year being used whenever possible.
Vehicle first registered on 25th March 1966.
1558cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Lotus Cortina is the commonly used term for the Ford Cortina Lotus, a high performance sports saloon, which was produced in the UK from 1963 to 1970 by Ford in collaboration with Lotus Cars. The original version, which was based on the Ford Cortina Mark I, was promoted by ford as the "Consul Cortina" developed by Lotus, with "Consul" later being dropped from the name.
There were 3,306 Mark I cars produced.
The car on show is a 1966 model - owner Kevin Mansell.
Kevin has owned this car since 1982 and has restored it 3 times in that period. The first time was not done to a great standard due to limited funds. The 3rd restoration was finished around 4 years ago and was properly funded to bring it to the standard it is today.
During the 1st and 3rd restoration the car was used for track days and sprint meetings as well as a daily road car.
Since the final restoration the car now covers around 2,000 miles a year being used whenever possible.
1966 Ford Cortina Lotus, FUA 383D
Image taken at the NEC Classic Car Show on 8th November 2024.
Vehicle first registered on 25th March 1966.
1558cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Lotus Cortina is the commonly used term for the Ford Cortina Lotus, a high performance sports saloon, which was produced in the UK from 1963 to 1970 by Ford in collaboration with Lotus Cars. The original version, which was based on the Ford Cortina Mark I, was promoted by ford as the "Consul Cortina" developed by Lotus, with "Consul" later being dropped from the name.
There were 3,306 Mark I cars produced.
The car on show is a 1966 model - owner Kevin Mansell.
Kevin has owned this car since 1982 and has restored it 3 times in that period. The first time was not done to a great standard due to limited funds. The 3rd restoration was finished around 4 years ago and was properly funded to bring it to the standard it is today.
During the 1st and 3rd restoration the car was used for track days and sprint meetings as well as a daily road car.
Since the final restoration the car now covers around 2,000 miles a year being used whenever possible.
Vehicle first registered on 25th March 1966.
1558cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Lotus Cortina is the commonly used term for the Ford Cortina Lotus, a high performance sports saloon, which was produced in the UK from 1963 to 1970 by Ford in collaboration with Lotus Cars. The original version, which was based on the Ford Cortina Mark I, was promoted by ford as the "Consul Cortina" developed by Lotus, with "Consul" later being dropped from the name.
There were 3,306 Mark I cars produced.
The car on show is a 1966 model - owner Kevin Mansell.
Kevin has owned this car since 1982 and has restored it 3 times in that period. The first time was not done to a great standard due to limited funds. The 3rd restoration was finished around 4 years ago and was properly funded to bring it to the standard it is today.
During the 1st and 3rd restoration the car was used for track days and sprint meetings as well as a daily road car.
Since the final restoration the car now covers around 2,000 miles a year being used whenever possible.
1967 Lotus Elan, VUR 8E
Image taken at Prestcott Hill Climb on 14th May 2023.
First registered 24th April 1967.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 24th April 1967.
1558cc petrol engine.
1967 Lotus Elan, VUR 8E
Image taken at Prestcott Hill Climb on 14th May 2023.
First registered 24th April 1967.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 24th April 1967.
1558cc petrol engine.
1968 Lotus Elan + 2, KVR 3F
Image taken at Classic Cars on the Green, Bearsted on 23rd July, 2023.
First registered 5th July, 1968.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 5th July, 1968.
1558cc petrol engine.
1968 Lotus Elan + 2, KVR 3F
Image taken at Classic Cars on the Green, Bearsted on 23rd July, 2023.
First registered 5th July, 1968.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 5th July, 1968.
1558cc petrol engine.
1969 Lotus 7, NRN 7
Image taken at British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire, on 9th August, 2024.
DVLA records show the vehicle as registered on 3rd September, 1971.
1585cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
The Lotus Seven is one of the most well-known British sports cars and also one of the longest lasting - as the modern day Caterham it is a design that is still alive today. The straightforward Seven replaced the Mark VI in 1957 and was built around a tubular space frame, simple aluminium body, using proprietary components.
In 1968 the long serving Lotus Seven Series 2 was updated to the Series 3. The axle which had been sourced from the Standard company was replaced by one from the Ford Escort, wide wheels were fitted and front disc brakes became standard. On the dashboard the instruments were revised with the inclusion of a rev counter and, for the first time, a fuel gauge. Indicators and an electric fan also became the norm.
Perhaps the ultimate Lotus Seven was the Twin Cam SS. Fitted with a powerful Lotus-Holbay twin cam engine, the car developed 120bhp. The chassis was specially strengthened, the car fitted with a limited slip differential, oil cooler, brake servo and Brand Lotus alloy wheels. Inside the car was finished in a special trim.
This particular car is the first Twin Cam SS Seven and was shown at the 1969 Earls Court Motor Show. Only thirteen of these models were ever produced.
Engine: 4 cyl. 1558cc. Top speed: 107mph (172kph). Power: 120bhp. Coachwork: two-seater sports. Price new: £1,250. Registration mark: NRN 7.
DVLA records show the vehicle as registered on 3rd September, 1971.
1585cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
The Lotus Seven is one of the most well-known British sports cars and also one of the longest lasting - as the modern day Caterham it is a design that is still alive today. The straightforward Seven replaced the Mark VI in 1957 and was built around a tubular space frame, simple aluminium body, using proprietary components.
In 1968 the long serving Lotus Seven Series 2 was updated to the Series 3. The axle which had been sourced from the Standard company was replaced by one from the Ford Escort, wide wheels were fitted and front disc brakes became standard. On the dashboard the instruments were revised with the inclusion of a rev counter and, for the first time, a fuel gauge. Indicators and an electric fan also became the norm.
Perhaps the ultimate Lotus Seven was the Twin Cam SS. Fitted with a powerful Lotus-Holbay twin cam engine, the car developed 120bhp. The chassis was specially strengthened, the car fitted with a limited slip differential, oil cooler, brake servo and Brand Lotus alloy wheels. Inside the car was finished in a special trim.
This particular car is the first Twin Cam SS Seven and was shown at the 1969 Earls Court Motor Show. Only thirteen of these models were ever produced.
Engine: 4 cyl. 1558cc. Top speed: 107mph (172kph). Power: 120bhp. Coachwork: two-seater sports. Price new: £1,250. Registration mark: NRN 7.
1970
1971 Lotus Europa S2, ARO 401K
Image taken at British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire, on 9th August, 2024.
Vehicle first registered on 20th October 1971.
1470cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Colin Chapman wanted a "Lotus for Europe" and, as its name suggests, the Europa was just that. Launched in 1966, coinciding with Lotus' move to a new factory at Hethel, Norwich, it was only available abroad. After three years of pestering, in 1969 Lotus finally gave its UK customers their own version of the Europa.
The design of the Europa went further back, to 1963. It was penned by Lotus Director of Engineering, Ron Hickman (who also designed the Elan and the Black and Decker Workmate). It was a scheme for Ford's GT40 Le Mans car project, which was eventually secured by rival Lola.
At only 42 inches high and with a sleek, lightweight glass-fibre body, it was very aerodynamic. Its Cd 0.29 drag co-efficient is envied even today. It used Chapman's backbone chassis and all independent suspension. Drive came from a tuned Renault 16 engine and transmission. The 16 was front wheel drive so Lotus simply turned the unit round and placed it behind the driver; the Europa was one of Britain's first mid-engine sports cars'
The S2 version launched in with body now bolted, not bonded, to the chassis. There were also interior refinements, such a electric windows, fully adjustable seats and a revised dashboard.
Engine: 4 cyl. 1470cc. Top speed: 109mph (175kph). Power: 78bhp. Coachwork: two seater coupe. Price new: £1,872. Registration mark: ARO 401K.
Vehicle first registered on 20th October 1971.
1470cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Colin Chapman wanted a "Lotus for Europe" and, as its name suggests, the Europa was just that. Launched in 1966, coinciding with Lotus' move to a new factory at Hethel, Norwich, it was only available abroad. After three years of pestering, in 1969 Lotus finally gave its UK customers their own version of the Europa.
The design of the Europa went further back, to 1963. It was penned by Lotus Director of Engineering, Ron Hickman (who also designed the Elan and the Black and Decker Workmate). It was a scheme for Ford's GT40 Le Mans car project, which was eventually secured by rival Lola.
At only 42 inches high and with a sleek, lightweight glass-fibre body, it was very aerodynamic. Its Cd 0.29 drag co-efficient is envied even today. It used Chapman's backbone chassis and all independent suspension. Drive came from a tuned Renault 16 engine and transmission. The 16 was front wheel drive so Lotus simply turned the unit round and placed it behind the driver; the Europa was one of Britain's first mid-engine sports cars'
The S2 version launched in with body now bolted, not bonded, to the chassis. There were also interior refinements, such a electric windows, fully adjustable seats and a revised dashboard.
Engine: 4 cyl. 1470cc. Top speed: 109mph (175kph). Power: 78bhp. Coachwork: two seater coupe. Price new: £1,872. Registration mark: ARO 401K.
1971 Lotus Europa S2, ARO 401K
Image taken at British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire, on 9th August, 2024.
Vehicle first registered on 20th October 1971.
1470cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Colin Chapman wanted a "Lotus for Europe" and, as its name suggests, the Europa was just that. Launched in 1966, coinciding with Lotus' move to a new factory at Hethel, Norwich, it was only available abroad. After three years of pestering, in 1969 Lotus finally gave its UK customers their own version of the Europa.
The design of the Europa went further back, to 1963. It was penned by Lotus Director of Engineering, Ron Hickman (who also designed the Elan and the Black and Decker Workmate). It was a scheme for Ford's GT40 Le Mans car project, which was eventually secured by rival Lola.
At only 42 inches high and with a sleek, lightweight glass-fibre body, it was very aerodynamic. Its Cd 0.29 drag co-efficient is envied even today. It used Chapman's backbone chassis and all independent suspension. Drive came from a tuned Renault 16 engine and transmission. The 16 was front wheel drive so Lotus simply turned the unit round and placed it behind the driver; the Europa was one of Britain's first mid-engine sports cars'
The S2 version launched in with body now bolted, not bonded, to the chassis. There were also interior refinements, such a electric windows, fully adjustable seats and a revised dashboard.
Engine: 4 cyl. 1470cc. Top speed: 109mph (175kph). Power: 78bhp. Coachwork: two seater coupe. Price new: £1,872. Registration mark: ARO 401K.
Vehicle first registered on 20th October 1971.
1470cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
Colin Chapman wanted a "Lotus for Europe" and, as its name suggests, the Europa was just that. Launched in 1966, coinciding with Lotus' move to a new factory at Hethel, Norwich, it was only available abroad. After three years of pestering, in 1969 Lotus finally gave its UK customers their own version of the Europa.
The design of the Europa went further back, to 1963. It was penned by Lotus Director of Engineering, Ron Hickman (who also designed the Elan and the Black and Decker Workmate). It was a scheme for Ford's GT40 Le Mans car project, which was eventually secured by rival Lola.
At only 42 inches high and with a sleek, lightweight glass-fibre body, it was very aerodynamic. Its Cd 0.29 drag co-efficient is envied even today. It used Chapman's backbone chassis and all independent suspension. Drive came from a tuned Renault 16 engine and transmission. The 16 was front wheel drive so Lotus simply turned the unit round and placed it behind the driver; the Europa was one of Britain's first mid-engine sports cars'
The S2 version launched in with body now bolted, not bonded, to the chassis. There were also interior refinements, such a electric windows, fully adjustable seats and a revised dashboard.
Engine: 4 cyl. 1470cc. Top speed: 109mph (175kph). Power: 78bhp. Coachwork: two seater coupe. Price new: £1,872. Registration mark: ARO 401K.
1972 Lotus Elan, NWU 7K
Image taken at The Great British Car Journey Museum on 15 May 2023.
First registered 19th January 1972.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 19th January 1972.
1558cc petrol engine.
1972 Lotus Europa, GOU 88K
Image taken at Aylesford Classic Car Show on 10 September 2023.
First registered on 12th June 1972.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered on 12th June 1972.
1558cc petrol engine.
1973 Lotus Elan, RMJ 991M
Image taken at Aylesford Classic Car Show on 10 September 2023.
First registered on 6th September 1973.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered on 6th September 1973.
1558cc petrol engine.
1973 Lotus Elan, THM 413M
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 19th May, 2023.
First registered 19th September, 1973.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 19th September, 1973.
1558cc petrol engine.
1974 Lotus Elan, AFH 5M
Image taken at Warwick Classic Car Show, Town Square, Warwick, on 13th August 2023.
First registered 16th May 1974.
1558 cc petrol engine.
First registered 16th May 1974.
1558 cc petrol engine.
1974 Lotus Elan, AFH 5M
Image taken at Warwick Classic Car Show, Town Square, Warwick, on 13th August 2023.
First registered 16th May 1974.
1558 cc petrol engine.
First registered 16th May 1974.
1558 cc petrol engine.
1974 Lotus Elan, AFH 5M
Image taken at Warwick Classic Car Show, Town Square, Warwick, on 13th August 2023.
First registered 16th May 1974.
1558 cc petrol engine.
First registered 16th May 1974.
1558 cc petrol engine.
1975 Lotus Europa, GPK 727N
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 19th May, 2023.
First registered 4th January, 1975.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 4th January, 1975.
1558cc petrol engine.
1975 Lotus Europa, GPK 727N 2.png
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 19th May, 2023.
First registered 4th January, 1975.
1558cc petrol engine.
First registered 4th January, 1975.
1558cc petrol engine.
1980
1980 Lotus Elite, DFP 603Y
Image taken at Warwickshire Classic & Performance Motor Show on 11th August, 2024.
DVLA records show the vehicle as registered on 1st September 1982.
2174cc petrol engine.
DVLA records show the vehicle as registered on 1st September 1982.
2174cc petrol engine.
1980 Lotus Elite, DFP 603Y
Image taken at Warwickshire Classic & Performance Motor Show on 11th August, 2024.
DVLA records show the vehicle as registered on 1st September 1982.
2174cc petrol engine.
DVLA records show the vehicle as registered on 1st September 1982.
2174cc petrol engine.
1980 Lotus Elite, DFP 603Y
Image taken at Warwickshire Classic & Performance Motor Show on 11th August, 2024.
DVLA records show the vehicle as registered on 1st September 1982.
2174cc petrol engine.
DVLA records show the vehicle as registered on 1st September 1982.
2174cc petrol engine.
1985 Lotus Esprit, C860 FDW
Image taken at Appledore Classic Vehicle Show on 16th July, 2023.
First registered 1st August, 1985.
2174cc petrol engine.
First registered 1st August, 1985.
2174cc petrol engine.
1985 Lotus Esprit, C860 FDW
Image taken at Thurnham Classic Vehicle Show on 28th August, 2023.
First registered 1st August, 1985.
2174cc petrol engine.
First registered 1st August, 1985.
2174cc petrol engine.
1985 Lotus Esprit, C860 FDW
Image taken at Thurnham Classic Vehicle Show on 28th August, 2023.
First registered 1st August, 1985.
2174cc petrol engine.
First registered 1st August, 1985.
2174cc petrol engine.
1990
1990 Lotus Elan, H725 PNG
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 21st May, 2023.
First registered on 1st August 1990.
1588cc petrol engine.
First registered on 1st August 1990.
1588cc petrol engine.
1990 Lotus Elan, H725 PNG
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 21st May, 2023.
First registered on 1st August 1990.
1588cc petrol engine.
First registered on 1st August 1990.
1588cc petrol engine.
1990 Lotus Esprit, H460 VRR
Image taken at The Great British Car Journey Museum on 15th May 2023.
First registered 13th August 1990.
1498cc petrol engine.
First registered 13th August 1990.
1498cc petrol engine.
1990 Lotus Esprit, H65 RAH
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 21st May, 2023.
First registered on 21st
August 1990.
2174cc petrol engine.
First registered on 21st
August 1990.
2174cc petrol engine.
1990 Lotus Esprit, H65 RAH
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 21st May, 2023.
First registered on 21st
August 1990.
2174cc petrol engine.
First registered on 21st
August 1990.
2174cc petrol engine.
1990 Lotus Esprit, H65 RAH
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 21st May, 2023.
First registered on 21st
August 1990.
2174cc petrol engine.
First registered on 21st
August 1990.
2174cc petrol engine.
1992 Lotus Elan, J745 SPG
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 21st May, 2023.
First registered on 19th June 1992.
1588cc petrol engine.
First registered on 19th June 1992.
1588cc petrol engine.
1992 Lotus Elan, J745 SPG
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 21st May, 2023.
First registered on 19th June 1992.
1588cc petrol engine.
First registered on 19th June 1992.
1588cc petrol engine.
1992 Lotus Elan, J745 SPG
Image taken at Faversham Festival of Transport on 21st May, 2023.
First registered on 19th June 1992.
1588cc petrol engine.
First registered on 19th June 1992.
1588cc petrol engine.
1993 Lotus Vauxhall Carlton, K948 XGS
Image taken at British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire, on 10th November 2024.
Vehicle first registered on 22nd January 1993.
3615cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton was based on the Carlton Gsi 24v and launched in autumn 1990. Complete Gsi models were shipped from Ruesselsheim to the Lotus factory in Hethel, Norfolk, where they were stripped and heavily modified to accept the necessary running gear, and model-specific interior and exterior trim.
Lotus Engineering developed the Carlton's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension - lowering it and stiffening it. With the addition of a Garrett turbocharger and various other tweaks the engine was producing 377bhp which pushed the car to 60mph in just over 5 seconds and on to 176mph.
The result of the collaboration between GM and Lotus was one of the fastest big luxury saloons - it was dubbed the then fastest four-seater saloon car in the world. The balance of performance and on-road behaviour also made the Lotus Carlton popular with the police for use as a (very!) high speed, albeit expensive, pursuit vehicle.
In its four-year production span, only 950 Lotus Carltons were built and the example on display in no. 820, an ex-press fleet car and one of just 286 UK versions produced.
Engine: 6cyl. 3615cc. Top speed: 176mph (283km?h). Power: 377bhp. Coachwork: four-door saloon. Price new: £48,000. Registration mark: K948 XGS.
Vehicle first registered on 22nd January 1993.
3615cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton was based on the Carlton Gsi 24v and launched in autumn 1990. Complete Gsi models were shipped from Ruesselsheim to the Lotus factory in Hethel, Norfolk, where they were stripped and heavily modified to accept the necessary running gear, and model-specific interior and exterior trim.
Lotus Engineering developed the Carlton's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension - lowering it and stiffening it. With the addition of a Garrett turbocharger and various other tweaks the engine was producing 377bhp which pushed the car to 60mph in just over 5 seconds and on to 176mph.
The result of the collaboration between GM and Lotus was one of the fastest big luxury saloons - it was dubbed the then fastest four-seater saloon car in the world. The balance of performance and on-road behaviour also made the Lotus Carlton popular with the police for use as a (very!) high speed, albeit expensive, pursuit vehicle.
In its four-year production span, only 950 Lotus Carltons were built and the example on display in no. 820, an ex-press fleet car and one of just 286 UK versions produced.
Engine: 6cyl. 3615cc. Top speed: 176mph (283km?h). Power: 377bhp. Coachwork: four-door saloon. Price new: £48,000. Registration mark: K948 XGS.
1993 Lotus Vauxhall Carlton, K948 XGS
Image taken at British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire, on 10th November 2024.
Vehicle first registered on 22nd January 1993.
3615cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton was based on the Carlton Gsi 24v and launched in autumn 1990. Complete Gsi models were shipped from Ruesselsheim to the Lotus factory in Hethel, Norfolk, where they were stripped and heavily modified to accept the necessary running gear, and model-specific interior and exterior trim.
Lotus Engineering developed the Carlton's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension - lowering it and stiffening it. With the addition of a Garrett turbocharger and various other tweaks the engine was producing 377bhp which pushed the car to 60mph in just over 5 seconds and on to 176mph.
The result of the collaboration between GM and Lotus was one of the fastest big luxury saloons - it was dubbed the then fastest four-seater saloon car in the world. The balance of performance and on-road behaviour also made the Lotus Carlton popular with the police for use as a (very!) high speed, albeit expensive, pursuit vehicle.
In its four-year production span, only 950 Lotus Carltons were built and the example on display in no. 820, an ex-press fleet car and one of just 286 UK versions produced.
Engine: 6cyl. 3615cc. Top speed: 176mph (283km?h). Power: 377bhp. Coachwork: four-door saloon. Price new: £48,000. Registration mark: K948 XGS.
Vehicle first registered on 22nd January 1993.
3615cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton was based on the Carlton Gsi 24v and launched in autumn 1990. Complete Gsi models were shipped from Ruesselsheim to the Lotus factory in Hethel, Norfolk, where they were stripped and heavily modified to accept the necessary running gear, and model-specific interior and exterior trim.
Lotus Engineering developed the Carlton's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension - lowering it and stiffening it. With the addition of a Garrett turbocharger and various other tweaks the engine was producing 377bhp which pushed the car to 60mph in just over 5 seconds and on to 176mph.
The result of the collaboration between GM and Lotus was one of the fastest big luxury saloons - it was dubbed the then fastest four-seater saloon car in the world. The balance of performance and on-road behaviour also made the Lotus Carlton popular with the police for use as a (very!) high speed, albeit expensive, pursuit vehicle.
In its four-year production span, only 950 Lotus Carltons were built and the example on display in no. 820, an ex-press fleet car and one of just 286 UK versions produced.
Engine: 6cyl. 3615cc. Top speed: 176mph (283km?h). Power: 377bhp. Coachwork: four-door saloon. Price new: £48,000. Registration mark: K948 XGS.
1993 Lotus Vauxhall Carlton, K948 XGS
Image taken at British Motor Museum, Gaydon, Warwickshire, on 10th November 2024.
Vehicle first registered on 22nd January 1993.
3615cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton was based on the Carlton Gsi 24v and launched in autumn 1990. Complete Gsi models were shipped from Ruesselsheim to the Lotus factory in Hethel, Norfolk, where they were stripped and heavily modified to accept the necessary running gear, and model-specific interior and exterior trim.
Lotus Engineering developed the Carlton's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension - lowering it and stiffening it. With the addition of a Garrett turbocharger and various other tweaks the engine was producing 377bhp which pushed the car to 60mph in just over 5 seconds and on to 176mph.
The result of the collaboration between GM and Lotus was one of the fastest big luxury saloons - it was dubbed the then fastest four-seater saloon car in the world. The balance of performance and on-road behaviour also made the Lotus Carlton popular with the police for use as a (very!) high speed, albeit expensive, pursuit vehicle.
In its four-year production span, only 950 Lotus Carltons were built and the example on display in no. 820, an ex-press fleet car and one of just 286 UK versions produced.
Engine: 6cyl. 3615cc. Top speed: 176mph (283km?h). Power: 377bhp. Coachwork: four-door saloon. Price new: £48,000. Registration mark: K948 XGS.
Vehicle first registered on 22nd January 1993.
3615cc petrol engine.
The notice displayed with the vehicle states:
The Vauxhall Lotus Carlton was based on the Carlton Gsi 24v and launched in autumn 1990. Complete Gsi models were shipped from Ruesselsheim to the Lotus factory in Hethel, Norfolk, where they were stripped and heavily modified to accept the necessary running gear, and model-specific interior and exterior trim.
Lotus Engineering developed the Carlton's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension - lowering it and stiffening it. With the addition of a Garrett turbocharger and various other tweaks the engine was producing 377bhp which pushed the car to 60mph in just over 5 seconds and on to 176mph.
The result of the collaboration between GM and Lotus was one of the fastest big luxury saloons - it was dubbed the then fastest four-seater saloon car in the world. The balance of performance and on-road behaviour also made the Lotus Carlton popular with the police for use as a (very!) high speed, albeit expensive, pursuit vehicle.
In its four-year production span, only 950 Lotus Carltons were built and the example on display in no. 820, an ex-press fleet car and one of just 286 UK versions produced.
Engine: 6cyl. 3615cc. Top speed: 176mph (283km?h). Power: 377bhp. Coachwork: four-door saloon. Price new: £48,000. Registration mark: K948 XGS.
1993 Lotus Esprit, K848 XPJ
Image taken at Aylesford Classic Car Show on 10 September 2023.
First registered on 1st March 1993.
2174cc petrol engine.
First registered on 1st March 1993.
2174cc petrol engine.
1997 Lotus Elise, R118 XKR
Image taken on road trip around the Peak District on 15th May 2023.
Vehicle first registered 3rd October 1997.
1796cc petrol engine.
Vehicle first registered 3rd October 1997.
1796cc petrol engine.
1997 Lotus Elise, R118 XKR
Image taken on road trip around the Peak District on 15th May 2023.
Vehicle first registered 3rd October 1997.
1796cc petrol engine.
Vehicle first registered 3rd October 1997.
1796cc petrol engine.
1998 Lotus Elise, S451 SLF
Image taken at Prestcott Hill Climb on 14th May 2023.
First registered 1st August 1998.
1796cc petrol engine.
First registered 1st August 1998.
1796cc petrol engine.
1999 Lotus Esprit, V692 JHP
Image taken at Wrotham Classic Transport Rally on 25th June 2023.
First registered 4th October 1999.
3506cc petrol engine.
First registered 4th October 1999.
3506cc petrol engine.
2000 onwards
2004 Lotus Elise, BK04 EWT
Image taken at Appledore Classic Vehicle Show on 16th July, 2023.
First registered 1st May, 2004.
1796cc petrol engine.
First registered 1st May, 2004.
1796cc petrol engine.
2010 Lotus Evora S, FX10 LMV
Image taken at Classics at the Museum Show, RAF Manston, Kent, on 15th August 2023.
First registered 25th August 2010.
3456cc petrol engine.
First registered 25th August 2010.
3456cc petrol engine.
2010 Lotus Evora S, FX10 LMV
Image taken at Classics at the Museum Show, RAF Manston, Kent, on 15th August 2023.
First registered 25th August 2010.
3456cc petrol engine.
First registered 25th August 2010.
3456cc petrol engine.
2010 Lotus Evora S, FX10 LMV
Image taken at Classics at the Museum Show, RAF Manston, Kent, on 15th August 2023.
First registered 25th August 2010.
3456cc petrol engine.
First registered 25th August 2010.
3456cc petrol engine.
2017 Lotus Evora, EV60 ORA
Image taken at Prestcott Hill Climb on 14th May 2023.
First registered 8th March 2017.
3456cc petrol engine.
First registered 8th March 2017.
3456cc petrol engine.
bottom of page