1986 Lotus Excel

Highlights

Subject to restoration and recommissioning work by the vendor, a renowned classic car specialist
Just 2,075 Excel SEs were produced between 1982-1992
One of only 3 known remaining in this colour and trim level

The Appeal

While Lotus has always been a low-volume manufacturer tucked away in a quiet corner of rural Norfolk, its reputation for advanced chassis design has spread all over the world. This has led to collaborations over the years between Lotus and a raft of leading carmakers ranging from Ford to DeLorean. Even auto giant Toyota called upon Hethel’s engineers during the early 1980s to help them develop the Supra which would go on to be one of the most successful sports cars of all time. What many forget, is that a second car was born out of this Anglo-Japanese cooperation - the Lotus Excel.

Incorporating numerous Toyota components including the gearbox, the Excel was based upon the outgoing Lotus Eclat, using a glass fibre body mounted upon a galvanised steel backbone chassis. The twin-cam engine came from the lauded Esprit S3 and the car achieved a 50:50 weight distribution that did wonders for its handling.

This 1986 example has been subject to a comprehensive by the vendor, a renowned classic car specialist. The engine, braking system, cooling system, steering and clutch have been rebuilt and elsewhere, the car has been sympathetically recommissioned to a very usable standard. Offered in excellent driving order and highly original overall condition, this is a fantastic example and an undiscovered gem of the Lotus back catalogue.

The History and Paperwork

Advisory-free MOT attained post-restoration (expired on 25th January 2024)
8 former registered keepers
One of only 2,075 made and 3 remaining in this colour and trim level
Comprehensively restored by the vendor’s professional workshop
99,806 miles indicated
V5C present

The Condition

The fibreglass bodywork has been carefully preserved, remaining straight and free from notable imperfections
We understand the chassis to be in good order, with nothing noted on the previous MOT test
The vendor acknowledges minor chips and scratches to the paint, consistent with age
The original interior was sympathetically reconditioned, reviving the factory trim to a good standard
The wheels have been powder-coated and present impeccably
All cabin electrics are reportedly in full working order, including the pop-up headlights

The Mechanics

2,174 cc four-cylinder twin-cam
Five-speed Toyota manual gearbox
Equipped with power steering
All electrics in full working order, including pop-up headlights
Engine has been stripped, assessed, re-gasketed and rebuilt with new belts and clutch
Braking system was stripped and rebuilt with new discs, pads, and calipers
The power steering pump and steering rack reconditioned
New brake master cylinder fitted
Water pump and heater matrix reconditioned
Tyres replaced
The vendor comments that it drives beautifully following the aforementioned work

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