Lotus Elise Classic Heritage Editions unveiled

Lotus has launched four Classic Heritage Editions. Based on the Elise Sport 220, each wears a special livery inspired by the firm’s Formula One history.

In chronological order, the first pays tribute to a blue and white Lotus Type 18 that the Rob Walker Racing Team campaigned in 1960. It achieved a particularly notable victory at the Monaco Grand Prix, driven by Sir Stirling Moss.

Lotus Elise Classic Heritage Edition - Type 18 (2020) Front SideLotus Elise Classic Heritage Edition - Type 18 (2020) Interior

The 1968 season saw entrants beginning to abandon traditional national racing colours to satisfy sponsorship deals. Among them was Lotus, which ran the Type 49B in red, white and gold thanks to Gold Leaf support.

Lotus Elise Classic Heritage Edition - Type 49B (2020) InteriorLotus Elise Classic Heritage Edition - Type 49B (2020) Side

For 1972, the Lotus Type 72D appeared in John Player Special black and gold. Emerson Fittipaldi secured the drivers’ title in that car, winning five rounds in the process.

Lotus Elise Classic Heritage Edition - Type 72D (2020) Front SideLotus Elise Classic Heritage Edition - Type 72D (2020) Interior

Nigel Mansell made his F1 race début in 1980, behind the wheel of a Lotus Type 81. Backing from Essex Petroleum resulted in blue, red and silver paintwork which is replicated on the final member of the quartet.

Lotus Elise Classic Heritage Edition - Type 81 (2020) InteriorLotus Elise Classic Heritage Edition - Type 81 (2020) Side

An enhanced standard specification includes forged alloy wheels, two-piece disc brakes, the interior colour pack, black carpets, a DAB radio, air conditioning and cruise control.

Just 100 examples of the Elise Classic Heritage Edition are going to be built. How the total is split by colour scheme will be determined by customer demand.

Prices start at £46,250 (or €47,848). By comparison, that’s £6,350 more than a regular Elise Sport 220 currently costs.

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