Lotus Exige Series II (2004-12)
Overview: The **Lotus Exige Series II (2004–2012)** was a crucial model for **Lotus Cars**, refining the brand’s approach to **track-focused performance** while maintaining its lightweight philosophy.
**Significance to Lotus**
- **Evolution of the Elise**: The Exige Series II was based on the **Lotus Elise**, but with a **fixed roof**, improved aerodynamics, and a more aggressive stance.
- **Toyota-Sourced Engine**: It introduced the **1.8L Toyota 2ZZ-GE engine**, offering **supercharged variants** that significantly boosted power and performance.
- **Track-Focused Engineering**: The Exige Series II was designed for **high-speed precision**, featuring **advanced aerodynamics**, a **rear wing**, and a **front splitter** for increased downforce.
- **Global Expansion**: The Exige helped Lotus strengthen its presence in **international markets**, particularly in **North America**, where demand for lightweight sports cars was growing.
- **Motorsport Influence**: The Exige Series II was widely used in **track days and racing**, reinforcing Lotus' reputation for **pure driving dynamics**.
- **Foundation for Future Models**: The engineering principles of the Exige Series II influenced later models, including the **Exige Series III** and the **Lotus Emira**.
The Exige Series II remains a **highly collectible classic**, admired for its **raw driving experience** and **track-ready performance**. You can also check out more details [here](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lotus_Exige).
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Production Total: Series II= 10,497
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Price New: The Lotus Exige Series II, launched in 2004, was priced at approximately **£29,995** in the UK. It was celebrated for its lightweight design and exceptional handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
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Sales: The **Lotus Exige Series II (2004–2012)** was a **moderate sales success**, helping Lotus strengthen its presence in **track-focused performance cars**. While it didn't achieve mass-market appeal, it became a favorite among **driving enthusiasts** and **track-day users**.
**Sales & Market Impact**
- **Production Numbers**: The Exige Series II contributed to the **10,497 total Exige units** produced across all generations.
- **Track-Focused Appeal**: It was widely used in **racing and track days**, reinforcing Lotus' reputation for **pure driving dynamics**.
- **Strong Enthusiast Following**: The Exige Series II developed a loyal fan base, with many owners praising its **raw driving experience**.
- **Collector Value**: Residual values have remained **strong**, with demand increasing over time.
While not a mainstream success, the Exige Series II remains a **highly collectible classic**, admired for its **lightweight agility** and **track-ready performance**. You can also check out more details [here](https://bing.com/search?q=Lotus+Exige+Series+II+sales+success).
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Historical Pricing Comparisons: The **Lotus Exige Series II** has seen fluctuating values over the years, reflecting its rarity and appeal among classic car enthusiasts. Based on recent valuation sources:
- **Lowest recorded sale price** since 2020: **£21,523**.
- **Highest recorded sale price** since 2020: **£99,640**.
- **Median price** for an Exige Series II in average condition: **£43,790**.
- **Total sales value** since 2020: **£1,450,828**.
- **Sell-through rate**: **74%**, indicating strong demand in the collector market.
These figures suggest that the Exige Series II remains a sought-after classic, with values influenced by condition, provenance, and market demand. If you're looking for a more detailed valuation or historical trends, platforms like **The Classic Valuer** and **Parkers** provide insights into pricing comparisons over time.
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Rivals: In 2004, the Lotus Exige Series II faced competition from several sports cars in the UK. Here are some approximate prices of its main rivals at the time:
- **Mazda RX-8**: Around £21,000.
- **Honda S2000**: Approximately £27,000.
- **Porsche Boxster**: Starting at about £33,000.
- **BMW Z4 Roadster**: Around £30,000.
These cars offered a mix of performance, style, and driving dynamics, making the sports car market quite competitive.
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Recorded in UK 2025
As of 2025, there are **312 Lotus Exige Series II cars** recorded as licensed in the UK, with an additional **487 on SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification)**. It's impressive to see how many of these thrilling sports cars have been preserved.
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Here are some common faults associated with the **Lotus Exige Series 2** (produced from **2004 to 2012**):
1. **Heater Fan Issues**: The heater fan can be in a notorious water trap, leading to failure at various speeds.
2. **Wheel Balancing Difficulty**: Occasionally, the cast wheels may be challenging to balance.
3. **Misted Headlamp Units**: Check the headlamp units for misting.
4. **Steering Play**: Play in the steering around the straight-ahead position could indicate a worn steering rack.
5. **Tyre Wear**: Inspect the tyres for signs of wear.
Remember to thoroughly check any used Exige for these potential issues!
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Generations
The Lotus Exige has gone through **three generations**:
1. **Series 1 (2000-2001)**: The original Exige featured a naturally aspirated 1.8 L Rover K Series Inline-four engine, producing 177 hp (132 kW; 179 PS) in standard form. A "track spec" version with 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS) was also available. The Series 1 Exige had a non-removable hardtop, distinctive rear bodywork, and a pylon-mounted rear wing.
2. **Series 2 (2004-2012)**: Introduced in 2004, the Series 2 Exige featured a naturally aspirated 1.8 L 16-valve DOHC Toyota/Yamaha engine rated at 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS). This generation continued the Exige's legacy with improved performance and handling.
3. **Series 3 (2012-2021)**: The Series 3 Exige became the larger-engined model of the family, featuring a V6 engine in place of the Elise's straight-four. Convertible versions were also available. This generation marked a significant evolution in performance and design.
All three generations offer thrilling driving experiences and embody Lotus's commitment to lightweight, agile sports cars.
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Variants
The Lotus Exige has seen several variants over the years. Here are the key ones:
1. **Series 1 (2000-2001)**:
- The original Exige featured a naturally aspirated 1.8 L Rover K Series Inline-four engine, producing 177 hp (132 kW; 179 PS) in standard form.
- A "track spec" version with 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS) was also available.
- The Series 1 Exige had a non-removable hardtop, distinctive rear bodywork, and a pylon-mounted rear wing.
2. **Series 2 (2004-2012)**:
- Introduced in 2004, the Series 2 Exige featured a naturally aspirated 1.8 L 16-valve DOHC Toyota/Yamaha engine rated at 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS).
- This generation continued the Exige's legacy with improved performance and handling.
3. **Series 3 (2012-2021)**:
- The Series 3 Exige became the larger-engined model of the family, featuring a V6 engine in place of the Elise's straight-four.
- Convertible versions were also available, offering thrilling driving experiences and embodying Lotus's commitment to lightweight, agile sports cars.
In addition to these, there are other variants like the **Exige Sport 350**, **Exige Sport 380**, **Exige Sport 410**, and the extreme **Exige Cup 430**. Each variant brings its own unique blend of performance and driving dynamics.
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Engines
The Lotus Exige has seen several engine variants over the years:
1. **Series 1 (2000-2001)**:
- The original Exige featured a naturally aspirated 1.8 L Rover K Series Inline-four engine in VHPD (Very High Performance Derivative) tune, producing 177 hp (132 kW; 179 PS) in standard form.
- There was also a "track spec" version with 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS) available.
2. **Series 2 (2004-2012)**:
- The Series 2 Exige introduced a naturally aspirated 1.8 L 16-valve DOHC Toyota/Yamaha engine (designated as 2ZZ-GE) rated at 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS).
3. **Series 3 (2012-2021)**:
- The Series 3 Exige became the larger-engined model, featuring a Toyota-sourced 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine.
- Variants include the Sport 350 (345 bhp), Sport 380, Sport 410, and the track-focused Cup 430 (430 bhp).
These engines contribute to the Exige's thrilling performance and agile handling!
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Spares
Certainly! If you're looking for Lotus Exige spares in the UK or Ireland, here are some options:
1. **Seriouslylotus**: They offer a wide range of Elise, Exige, and Evora parts, both third-party OEM and genuine. You can find wheels, dash components, radiators, and more. They ship worldwide.
2. **Car-parts.ie**: This online shop provides spare parts for the LOTUS Exige Coupe. You can explore their catalogue to find the specific parts you need.
3. **Esprit Engineering**: They have an extensive online catalogue where you can order Lotus Exige spares and parts. Check out their full list of parts for this model.
4. **123spareparts.co.uk**: Another option for LOTUS Exige Coupe spare parts. Visit their website to find suitable parts for your vehicle.
Remember to check availability and compatibility with your specific Exige model.
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Specialists
You can find specialists for Lotus vehicles in the UK and Ireland through several reputable sources:
1. Lotus Centres: You can locate your nearest authorised Lotus dealer or service centre by using the search tool on the Lotus Cars UK website.
2. Bell and Colvill: One of the oldest and most respected Lotus dealers in the UK, offering sales, service, and parts for all Lotus models.
3. Paul Matty Sports Cars: Specialises in Lotus sales, service, and parts, with a strong reputation in the Lotus community.
4. Esprit Engineering: Known for their expertise in Lotus vehicles, offering a wide range of services and parts.
5. Lotus Silverstone: An official Lotus dealer providing sales, service, and parts for Lotus cars.
These specialists should be able to assist you with any needs related to your Lotus vehicle.