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From CAR Magazine (2/04):
Lotus is about to kick out the Rover K-engine for Toyota's banzai 1.8-litre
four, showcasing the new engine in another raw-as-sushi Exige. Why, the old guard will cry? The VVT-i is barely torquier
and only spills real guts within a Rizla of the red line. however, the engine should prove more reliable, and crucially it won't be turned away at Elis Island by US customs, allowing the Elise a crack at the lucrative American market in 2004 and beyond. Back in the UK, only Exiges (not the Elise) will run the 190bhp Toyota unit.
But is the Exige-due on sale around March-getting middle aged, what with anti-lock brakes standard and air-con on the options list? No chance. With the engine revving in your left ear, a promised 0-60mph demolition in less than 5 seconds and a bodykit required to generate 8okg of downforce at 100mph, you won't be accusing the Exige of going soft. It should provide one of the most exhilarating drives of 2004. The Facts:
Price - 33,500 pounds
Engine - 190bhp 1.8-litre 4
Performance - 4.7 sec 0-62mph
140mph (est)
On Sale in UK: March
Note: New Exige spotted on test reveals revised bodykit.
Lotus is about to kick out the Rover K-engine for Toyota's banzai 1.8-litre
four, showcasing the new engine in another raw-as-sushi Exige. Why, the old guard will cry? The VVT-i is barely torquier
and only spills real guts within a Rizla of the red line. however, the engine should prove more reliable, and crucially it won't be turned away at Elis Island by US customs, allowing the Elise a crack at the lucrative American market in 2004 and beyond. Back in the UK, only Exiges (not the Elise) will run the 190bhp Toyota unit.
But is the Exige-due on sale around March-getting middle aged, what with anti-lock brakes standard and air-con on the options list? No chance. With the engine revving in your left ear, a promised 0-60mph demolition in less than 5 seconds and a bodykit required to generate 8okg of downforce at 100mph, you won't be accusing the Exige of going soft. It should provide one of the most exhilarating drives of 2004. The Facts:
Price - 33,500 pounds
Engine - 190bhp 1.8-litre 4
Performance - 4.7 sec 0-62mph
140mph (est)
On Sale in UK: March
Note: New Exige spotted on test reveals revised bodykit.