The library / Lotus
Is the Lotus Exige a good investment?
S2 (naturally aspirated or supercharged, 2004–2011)
The thesis
The Exige S2 is a lightweight (under 900kg), track-honed coupe with a Toyota 2ZZ 1.8L engine (189hp N/A or 220hp supercharged). Evo calls it 'one of the world's great driving experiences'—hydraulic steering, extruded-aluminium chassis, and a purity that modern cars can't replicate. Prices are £25–40k for good S2s (N/A or supercharged), and the market is stable after years of strong appreciation. Autocar notes 'the Exige holds its value so well' and predicts continued upward trajectory for well-kept examples. With raw, analogue feedback and proven Toyota reliability, it offers a unique proposition between hot hatches and Porsches. Usability is surprisingly high for a track car.
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