There are good odds if you own a Lotus, you’re likely to have some interest in motorsport.
To that end, the British sports car manufacturer has released a new special edition of its venerable Elise, called the Classic Heritage Edition, that celebrates its racing heritage.
Based on the entry-level Elise Sport 220, the Classic Heritage Edition is available in four different liveries that will look familiar to Lotus and motorsport enthusiasts alike.
The blue and white model celebrates the first Lotus car to achieve a Formula 1 pole position and victory. The Lotus Type 18 was piloted by the legendary Sir Stirling Moss at the Monaco Grand Prix almost exactly 60 years ago.
The red, white and gold model is a tribute to Graham Hill’s Lotus 49B, in which he won the 1968 Formula 1 world championship.
The black and gold model pays homage to the livery of Emerson Fittipaldi’s Lotus Type 72D, which he raced to five victories during the 1972 Formula 1 season.
Finally, the blue, red and silver model’s paint job is inspired by the Lotus Type 81 of 1980, driven by Nigel Mansell, Elio de Angelis and Mario Andretti.
The colour schemes extend to the interior, with each version featuring a vivid, matching cabin that matches the exterior or, in the case of the blue-and-white model’s red interior, attractively contrasts with it.
Colin Chapman’s motto may have been “simplify, then add lightness” but these Classic Heritage Editions have gained the tiniest bit of weight. Lotus has added as standard fitment cruise control, black carpet with floor mats, and DAB digital radio with four speakers. There’s also a special commemorative build plaque on the dash.
Don’t worry, these additions aren’t going to throw out the balance.
Also standard are ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels and two-piece disc brakes. As with the normal Elise, you can also add an optional fibreglass hardtop and a lightweight titanium exhaust.
Just 100 cars are being produced in total, with a recommended retail price of $104,990 before on-road costs.
In true special edition tradition, Lotus claims the Classic Heritage Edition is terrific value as it represents $27,000 worth of extra value for just $17,000 more than the base Elise Sport 220.
