2011 Lotus Exige

Standard Exiges come in two variants-the Exige S240 makes 240 horsepower, while the Exige S260 makes almost that--257 hp. Both models use a 1.8L supercharged Toyota-sourced 4-cylinder engine, mounted in back, with a 6-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive.

Of the two, the Exige S260 is the pick for pure track use, as it has 17 more horsepower and an improved power-to-weight ratio, thanks to the use of carbon fiber panels that replace the normal roof, engine cover, intake ducts and other components, altogether reducing the vehicle weight by 50 pounds.

Both Exige models use a special structure made of epoxy-bonded aluminum extrusions, with an integral steel structure and lightweight steel subframe. The outer body is made of composite fiberglass, while some other components, like the fuel door are made of aluminum. The very swoopy exterior is accented front and back with projector-beam headlamps and LED taillights.

Altogether, the mid-engine Exige is very light, weighing just over 2,000 pounds. The combination of a stiff, unequal-length wishbone suspension, adjustable anti-sway bars and wide tires give the Exige tenacious grip. They're good in a straight line too; the S260 can get to 60 mph in just four seconds, on its way to a top speed of 150 mph. Both models include launch control, which helps release the clutch at the best possible point for acceleration from a standing start, making those 4-second 0-60 times possible and repeatable.

Standard features on the Exige models include a leather-trimmed Momo steering wheel, air conditioning, push-button start, tinted glass and a 4-speaker (two speakers in the S260) Alpine stereo.

The Exige S240 can be made slightly more civil with the addition of the Touring Pack, which brings leather upholstery, additional sound insulation, full carpet and an iPod connector. Other options include the Track Pack which includes Bilstein dampers and a limited-slip differential among other upgrades.
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