Highlights
- Current ownership for thirteen years
- Extensive history file with old invoices, MOTs and other paperwork
- Timing belts, tensioner and belts replaced in 2020
- Carburettors tuned and engine power diagnostic completed in 2024 by Nutts Performance Classics
- MOT valid to July 2026
The Appeal
The Lotus Excel SE represents the final evolution of the wedge-shaped Eclat/Excel line, combining Colin Chapman's lightweight philosophy with the reliability of Toyota's 2.2-litre twin-cam engine. As the last Lotus before the company's Elan revival, the Excel SE offered a more refined and practical proposition than its predecessors, with improved build quality and a more comfortable interior, whilst retaining the engaging handling characteristics that made Lotus famous.
This 1986 example comes to market following thirteen years of ownership by its current keeper, who purchased it as their dream car. The vendor has clearly been committed to maintaining the car properly, as evidenced by the extensive history file containing old invoices, MOTs and paperwork. Significant mechanical work has been undertaken during the current ownership, including timing belts, tensioner and belts in 2020, carburettor servicing in 2022, and a full carburettor tune with engine power diagnostic by Nutts Performance Classics in 2024. The car also benefits from new door seals and a new windscreen fitted in 2020.
The vendor rates the interior as presenting well, with the leather upholstery, headlining and carpets all in good order. The paintwork, however, is rated as poor, with the vendor noting that whilst the car was previously resprayed, it now shows microblistering and blooming in areas, though this has been reduced by regular coloured waxing. The car is fitted with Route OZ alloy wheels and comes with a TOAD alarm and the private number plate shown in the photos.
With an MOT valid until July 2026 and a comprehensive maintenance history, this Excel SE offers an opportunity to acquire a well-documented example of Lotus's underrated grand tourer. The vendor is selling due to ongoing back problems, and the car is available for any inspection.
Key Information
- Mileage: 79,289 miles (indicated)
- Technical inspection status: Valid MOT until July 2026
- Technical specs: 2.2-litre 80 bhp Lotus Type 912 engine, Toyota-sourced five-speed manual gearbox
- Paperwork: Extensive old invoices, MOTs and paperwork available, plus invoices for work during current ownership
The Detail
- Current owner is the eighth registered keeper, having purchased thirteen years ago
- Stored outside under a cover
- TOAD alarm fitted
- Previously resprayed but now showing microblistering/blooming in areas, reduced by regular coloured waxing
- Route OZ alloy wheels present well
- New windscreen fitted in 2020
- New door seals fitted in 2020
- Timing belts, tensioner and belts replaced in 2020
- Carburettors serviced in 2022
- Carburettors tuned and engine power diagnostic completed in 2024 by Nutts Performance Classics
- Leather upholstery, headlining, and carpets present well
- Heated rear screen not operating due to the second-hand unit lacking electrical connections
- Comes with the private number plate shown in the photos
- Passenger window is slow and opens half way.
- Bonnet gas strut does not hold bonnet up
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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