Lot Ended
Description
Showing only 92,023 miles;
current ownership since 2010; owned by Lotus Cars initially and used
as the company's Earls Court Motor Show exhibit; this historically important
Excel combines proven usability with unique provenance
First
registered in March 1984, this early narrow-body Excel is a particularly
significant example, having been owned by Lotus Cars initially and used as
the company's Earls Court Motor Show exhibit in October 1983. Displayed to
promote the updates introduced for the 1984 model year, it featured a number of
new developments including body-coloured bumpers, a louvred bonnet, rear boot
spoiler and distinctive eight-spoke alloy wheels.
Indeed, the vendor
states that it is believed to be the only car built during 1983 to combine all
of these later features, with a letter from Lotus included in the history file
confirming its show car status. Images of the car on display at Earls Court are
also included within the accompanying documentation.
Few cars encapsulate
Lotus's unique blend of performance, practicality and driver engagement quite as
well as the Excel. Developed from the Eclat and benefiting from the adoption of
proven Toyota drivetrain components, the Excel offered the sharp handling for
which Lotus was famed while delivering improved refinement and everyday
usability.
Finished in optional Metallic Silver, the car was further
specified from new with several desirable extras including half-leather trim and
air conditioning – a particularly unusual feature on an Excel of this age. The
air conditioning system remains fitted, although it is currently inoperative and
will require attention before use.
Showing some 92,023 miles, the car has
been in the current ownership since 2010 and has been carefully maintained
throughout. The vendor advises that the oil and filter have been changed
annually whenever the car has been in use, although it was stored off the road
between 2012 and 2019. The cambelt was renewed last year, while both the gearbox
and differential oils were replaced two years ago.
The bodywork presents
well with only minor stone chipping commensurate with the car's age and mileage.
Inside, the cabin remains impressively well preserved, with the only notable
blemishes being some sun damage to the upper sections of the
seats.
Mechanically, the 2.2-litre engine is said to perform particularly
well, delivering strong torque along with the eager, free-revving
characteristics expected of a Lotus. The vendor reports that the gearbox and
differential operate smoothly with no untoward noises in service.
Always
garaged during the current ownership and, we are informed, by the previous owner
as well, the car has benefited from around 25 years of protected storage. Now
exempt from both MOT testing and road tax, this historically important Excel
combines proven usability with unique provenance. A rare opportunity to acquire
a genuine Lotus show car with factory confirmation of its significance, it
represents a fascinating chapter in the marque's history and would make an
excellent addition to any Lotus enthusiast's collection.
Contact: david.tassell@brightwells.com