Lotus has come up with the most extreme Exige yet – the Lotus Exige Cup 430.
The Exige Cup 430 is powered by a same 3.5L V6 as the Evora GT430, but it gets a new supercharger and chargecooler that have have been designed specifically for the Exige. With 430 horsepower and 325 lb-ft. of torque, the Exige Cup 430 can reach 60 mph in 3.2 seconds and has a top speed of 180 mph.
To help improve downforce, the Exige Cup 430 gets several aerodynamic improvements, like a lightweight rear clam panel supports the larger, motorsport wing. At the front there’s a new front clam with carbon fiber ducts and a new mesh pattern grille that allow for a new front splitter and air curtain mechanism to reduce drag.
Since the Exige Cup 430 is designed for the track, Lotus says that it is capable of covering the Hethel circuit in 1 minute 24.8 seconds, making it the fastest production car to lap the famous circuit – 1.2 seconds faster than the Lotus 3-Eleven.
“This is the car that we have always wanted to build, and I am sure that all Lotus enthusiasts will be delighted with the end product,” stated Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus. “As well as a significant power hike, the Cup 430 has benefited from extensive development in areas essential to Lotus’ DNA, in order to ensure that the full potential of the Exige’s incredible chassis can be exploited. This car has no rivals – inside or outside of its price bracket – and it’s no exaggeration when we say that nothing can keep up with this Exige on the road or track.”
Sadly the Exige isn’t approved for U.S. roads, but byers in the UK can get the Exige Cup 430 for £99,800, while its priced at €127,500 in Germany and €128,600 in France.
Source: Lotus
