The Lotus Exige is a legendary sports car, revered for its raw driving experience, razor-sharp handling, and minimalist design. Finding the right Exige can be a rewarding journey, but knowing the nuances of each model year is crucial. This guide will explore the best and worst years of the Exige, helping you make an informed decision when purchasing this iconic British sports car.
The Exige evolved considerably over its production run, offering various engine options, styling updates, and technological advancements. Understanding these changes will help you determine which model best suits your needs and preferences, and also which models to potentially steer clear of.
| Model Year/Series | Key Features/Strengths | Potential Weaknesses/Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Series 1 (2000-2001) | Lightest Exige, rawest driving experience, Rover K-Series engine | K-Series engine reliability concerns, limited availability |
| Series 2 (2004-2011) | Toyota engines (reliable), improved chassis, wider availability | Earlier models (2004-2006) underpowered compared to later variants |
| Series 2 (2007-2011) - Supercharged Models (S, S240, S260) | Significant power increase, improved performance, more modern interior | Higher running costs (servicing, maintenance), supercharger maintenance |
| Series 3 (2012-2020) | More powerful V6 engine, improved interior, more refined driving experience | Increased weight compared to earlier models, some consider it less "raw" |
| 2006 Exige | Best of the 4-cylinder cars, reliable, improved power over early S2. | Still less powerful than supercharged cars. |
| V6 Exige (2012-2020) | Most modern Exige, significant power and torque, comfortable for longer drives | Weight can be a factor, not as nimble as the earlier cars. |
| Exige Cup Models (All Years) | Track-focused, optimized aerodynamics, lightweight components | Compromised comfort, higher maintenance, not ideal for daily driving |
| 2007-2008 Exige S | Great balance of power, handling, and reliability | Can be difficult to find in good condition. |
| 2009-2011 Exige S240/S260 | More power than the earlier Exige S models | Premium price compared to earlier models |
| Exige Sport 350/380/410/430 (2017-2020) | Latest and most powerful 4-cylinder variants, highly desirable | Highest price points, potentially higher running costs |
Detailed Explanations
Series 1 (2000-2001): The original Exige is the purest and arguably the most engaging. It features a Rover K-Series engine and a lightweight chassis, providing exceptional handling. However, the K-Series engine is known for potential head gasket issues, and finding a well-maintained Series 1 can be challenging due to its limited production run.
Series 2 (2004-2011): The Series 2 Exige marked a significant shift, powered by Toyota engines which brought much-improved reliability. The chassis was also refined, and the car became more widely available globally. Early models (2004-2006) utilized a naturally aspirated 1.8-liter Toyota engine which, while reliable, offered less power than the later supercharged variants.
Series 2 (2007-2011) - Supercharged Models (S, S240, S260): These models represented a major performance leap. The addition of a supercharger significantly boosted power output, making the Exige a formidable track weapon. The interior also received some updates, although it remained relatively spartan. Potential downsides include higher running costs associated with supercharger maintenance and servicing.
Series 3 (2012-2020): The Series 3 Exige adopted a supercharged V6 engine, providing a substantial increase in power and torque. The interior became more refined, and the car offered a more comfortable driving experience. However, the V6 engine added weight, which some purists felt compromised the car's nimbleness compared to earlier models.
2006 Exige: Considered by many to be the sweet spot of the naturally aspirated Series 2 cars. It benefits from improvements made to the 1.8-liter Toyota engine and offers a good balance of performance, reliability, and affordability. It's a great choice for those who want a pure driving experience without the complexity and higher running costs of the supercharged models.
V6 Exige (2012-2020): This is the most modern iteration of the Exige, featuring a potent supercharged V6 engine. It offers exhilarating acceleration and a more comfortable interior compared to earlier models. The increased weight, however, means it's not quite as agile as its predecessors. It's a good choice for those who want a more powerful and refined Exige.
Exige Cup Models (All Years): These are track-focused variants of the Exige, optimized for performance with features like improved aerodynamics, lightweight components, and stiffer suspension. Cup models are not ideal for daily driving due to their compromised comfort and higher maintenance requirements. They are best suited for enthusiasts who primarily intend to use the car on the track.
2007-2008 Exige S: The first supercharged Exige offered a significant performance boost over the naturally aspirated models. It provided a great balance of power, handling, and relative reliability. Finding one in good condition can be challenging as many have been heavily tracked.
2009-2011 Exige S240/S260: These models offered even more power than the earlier Exige S. They featured updated superchargers and improved engine management systems. They command a premium price compared to earlier models but offer a noticeable performance advantage.
Exige Sport 350/380/410/430 (2017-2020): These are the latest and most powerful 4-cylinder Exiges. They feature significant performance upgrades, including revised superchargers, improved aerodynamics, and lightweight components. They are highly desirable but also command the highest price points and may have higher running costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Exige is the most reliable? The Series 2 Exige with the Toyota engine is generally considered the most reliable due to the robust nature of the Toyota powerplant.
Which Exige is the fastest? The later V6 Exige models (Sport 380, 410, 430) offer the highest power output and are therefore the fastest in terms of straight-line acceleration.
Which Exige is the best for track days? The Exige Cup models, regardless of year, are specifically designed for track use with optimized aerodynamics and suspension.
Is the Series 1 Exige worth the risk of engine issues? For purists seeking the rawest Exige experience, the Series 1 can be worth it, but be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs associated with the K-Series engine.
Are the supercharged Exige models expensive to maintain? Yes, the supercharged models generally have higher maintenance costs due to the complexities of the supercharger system and increased performance demands.
What should I look for when buying a used Exige? Inspect for accident damage, check the service history, and pay attention to common issues like worn suspension components and engine maintenance.
Which Exige is the best for daily driving? While not ideally suited for daily commutes, the V6 Exige models offer the most comfort and refinement, making them the most practical for occasional daily use.
What is the difference between the S240 and S260 models? The S260 models feature a slightly more powerful supercharger and engine management system, resulting in a higher power output compared to the S240.
Why is the Exige so highly regarded? The Exige is celebrated for its exceptional handling, lightweight design, and raw driving experience, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Are there any common problems with the Exige? Common issues include worn suspension components, especially on track-driven cars, and potential engine issues with the early K-Series engines.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Lotus Exige depends on your individual priorities. For the purest driving experience and the lightest weight, the Series 1 is an excellent choice, albeit with potential reliability concerns. The Series 2, particularly the supercharged models and the V6 Exige, offer a blend of performance and reliability, making them excellent all-around options. Ultimately, research and careful inspection are key to finding the perfect Exige for your needs.