This car was formerly known as "Elise S Cup". The "Elise 220 Cup" will be used starting from 2016 production year. Responding to its customers’ demands is a Lotus duty. The Elise 220 Cup is a prime example of taking a more track focused model, in this case, the Elise Cup R, and toning it back enough to make it suitable for road use. The sheer flexibility of this approach is helped by the weight conscious nature of the Elise lightweight chassis and composite body. The Elise 220 Cup is what results. Despite boasting the same power as the Elise S, the overall kerbweight of the Elise 220 Cup increases by only 42lbs (19kgs) over the R version. As a result, its power to weight ratio is an enchanting 235bhp/tonne (238PS/1,000kg). The result is high performance that is guaranteed to thrill and excite. The driving quality is as pure as the driven snow.
With the 1.8-litre engine, its induction supplemented by an Eaton supercharger, it means that the power is at an outstanding 217bhp (220PS). Select the first of the Elise 220 Cup six, close-ratio gears and the forwards motion is simply wonderful. Its 235bhp/tonne (238PS/1000kgs) enables a V-max of 140mph (225kph), yet its Combined fuel economy is given as 37.5mpg (7.5l/100km) . Lotus proves that sportscar ownership can remain both enticing and affordable.
Underpinning every Elise 220 Cup is the most efficient, structurally rigid and low weight extruded and bonded chassis-tub. Based on more than 60 years of racing car developments, its torsional rigidity remains outstanding, even with the substantial power increase. It allows the suspension to work most efficiently, to provide unparalleled grip, a comfortable ride and a dynamic balance that is unquestionably excellent. An electronic differential lock (EDL) helps to tame any over-exuberance (for which you will surely be forgiven), while Sport mode Dynamic Performance Management system enhances a track car for road intentions.
To call the Elise 220 Cup ‘tamed’ would be wrong. While it is toned down from the Cup R model, it remains track-focused but for the racer that needs to drive home afterwards. One look at the 220 Cup highlights its attractive, yet purposeful aero package. From its front splitter, to its rear airflow diffuser, it is every inch the racer for the road. The lateral barge boards, fixed hardtop, engine cover, rollover hoop cover, side vanes and the rear wing are not only finished in black but also ‘shout’ racing car. Naturally, because it is a Lotus, the Elise 220 Cup features ‘zero-lift’, although the revised aero package increases downforce by 145lbs (66kgs) at 100mph (160kph), although this increases to an impressive 275lbs (125kgs) at V-max.
0 - 60 MPH
4.2
secs
MAX POWER
217
hp
WEIGHT
952
kg