1 Mar 2007
LOTUS took the popular but hardcore Elise sports car, gave it a roof and made it slightly more user-friendly for buyers wanting something more suitable for road use than the track.
The result is the Europa S, which was introduced to Australia in February 2007 (a year after Europe) priced at $109,900 – some $40,000 more than the 100kW 1.8-litre Toyota-engined Elise S.
The mid-engined Europa S is powered by the turbocharged Opel 2.0-litre engine from the Holden Astra Sri Turbo, driving through a six-speed manual gearbox.
With 147kW of power and 272Nm of torque, the lightweight Europa S will race from 0-100km/h in just 5.8 seconds.
In terms of practicality, the Europa S has a bigger boot than the Elise, is slightly softer in the suspension and has a bigger door opening for easier access.
Standard equipment includes dual airbags, ABS brakes, air conditioning, leather upholstery and premium sound system.
