CompleteCar

Lotus to take on Porsche and Audi?

Paris round-up: Lotus Elan.

What is it?

The Elan has been reborn. Lotus' famous small sports car was last seen in 'M100' form in 1995, but the British sports car maker has revived it and plans to put the new version on sale in 2013.

Why's it here?

Along with the other five cars unveiled by Lotus, the Elan is part of an onslaught of growth by the company to take on established rivals like Porsche and Audi. It will be priced to compete against the 911 and the R8. Rear seats will be optional.

Show stopper or floor filler?

The engines and performance figures look most impressive. A mid-mounted, transverse 4.0-litre V6 will be available with 400- or 470hp - the latter in the warmed-up R version. Expect 0-100km/h in 3.9- and 3.5 seconds depending on whether you have the R or not. A relatively low kerb weight of 1,295kg helps it to sneak under the 200g/km mark, too.

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Published on October 4, 2010