Lotus Reveals The Elise Sprint

Lotus loves to do special edition vehicles, and the latest is the Elise Sprint. If you learn nothing else about this car, know it weighs about 1,740 pounds. That’s incredibly little, even for Lotus, and especially in this modern world where most cars weigh in excess of 4,000 pounds.

To add lightness, Lotus cut about 90 pounds from the regular Elise’s curb weight by replacing different components with versions made of carbon fiber. Engineers looked at fine details to accomplish this feat, using everything from carbon sill covers to two-piece brake discs. This is the biggest diet Lotus has put the Elise on since it first launched, so it’s kind of a big deal.

Other changes include an updated front and rear, which line up with the brand’s current design language. Still, the car will be quickly identifiable to enthusiasts, while the average observers will think it’s some strange mini-Ferrari.

The Elise Sprint is definitely a driver’s car. Those lucky enough to buy one will enjoy a lightweight open-gate gear selector, just like in the Exige Sport 350. If you want to go natural, a 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine is available. It propels the car from 0 to 60 in just 5.9 seconds. For those who like a forced feeding Lotus is also offering a 1.8-liter supercharged engine. You can shred many tires with this option, plus go 0 to 60 in 4.1 seconds.

This new addition sits in the middle of the Lotus Elise lineup, with the Elise Sport at the bottom of the range and the Elise Cup 250 at the top.