Lotus Excel: A Comprehensive Guide
The Lotus Excel, produced from 1982 to 1992, represents a significant chapter in Lotus's history. While often overshadowed by the Esprit, the Excel offers a more practical and refined take on the Lotus sports car ethos. It sits firmly in the grand tourer (GT) category, blending sporting handling with a degree of comfort and practicality suitable for longer journeys. Developed from the earlier Lotus Eclat and Elite, the Excel received substantial improvements to build quality, performance, and overall refinement, making it a compelling, if often overlooked, choice for enthusiasts.
Generations
- 1982-1984 (Excel Phase 1): The initial release. Improved build quality over its predecessors, featuring a 2.2-liter Lotus 912 engine, Toyota W58 five-speed gearbox, and improved suspension. Retained some visual cues from the Eclat.
- 1984-1992 (Excel Phase 2/Final Specification): This phase saw significant improvements. Notably, the rear suspension was redesigned with revised geometry and improved trailing arms. The interior received updates, often featuring leather upholstery and improved instrumentation. Later models received further refinements to the engine management system. Minor cosmetic changes were also implemented. This is the most desirable generation.
Reliability & Common Issues
Owning a Lotus Excel requires a realistic understanding of its potential quirks. While improvements were made over earlier Lotus models, it remains a car built in relatively small numbers with some unique engineering solutions. Here's a breakdown of common issues:
Engine (Lotus 912):
- Timing Belt: The 912 engine is an interference engine. Regular timing belt replacement is absolutely critical (every 24,000 miles or 2 years is recommended, regardless of mileage) to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
- Oil Leaks: Lotus engines are known for leaks. Check the head gasket, cam cover gasket, and front crank seal. Regular maintenance is crucial.
- Cooling System: The cooling system can be prone to corrosion and leaks. Ensure the radiator is in good condition and that the coolant is regularly flushed and replaced. Overheating can cause significant damage to the aluminum head.
- Carburetion/Fuel Injection: Early Excels often used Dell'Orto carburetors, which can be temperamental. Later models benefited from Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, which is generally more reliable but can suffer from issues with fuel pumps, injectors, and the warm-up regulator.
- Cylinder Liners: The 912 block has wet cylinder liners which can corrode. Regular coolant changes using the correct formulation is essential.
Gearbox (Toyota W58):
- Synchro Wear: The Toyota W58 gearbox is generally robust, but synchros, particularly in 2nd and 3rd gear, can wear with age and enthusiastic driving. Listen for crunching noises during gear changes.
- Shifter Bushings: The shifter linkage can become sloppy due to worn bushings. Replacing these bushings can significantly improve shift feel.
Suspension & Chassis:
- Rear Trailing Arms: The redesigned rear trailing arms (post-1984) are significantly stronger than the earlier design. However, they are still susceptible to corrosion and cracking, especially around the mounting points. Inspect thoroughly.
- Suspension Bushes: The rubber suspension bushes throughout the car will degrade over time, affecting handling and ride quality. Polyurethane bushes are a popular upgrade.
- Corrosion: Check the chassis, particularly around the outriggers and suspension mounting points, for rust. While the Excel's galvanised chassis is more resistant to rust than earlier Lotus models, corrosion can still occur, especially in damp climates.
Electrical System:
- Wiring: Lucas electrics... Enough said. Check for corroded connectors, brittle wiring, and ensure all grounds are clean and secure. A wiring loom overhaul is often a worthwhile investment.
- Relays and Fuses: Check and replace relays and fuses as needed. Corrosion is a common issue.
Interior:
- Upholstery: Leather upholstery (often found in later models) can wear and crack with age. Repair or replacement may be necessary.
- Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard can be prone to cracking, especially in hot climates.
- Trim and Fittings: Check that all trim pieces are present and secure. Replacement parts can be difficult to source.
Driving Experience
The Lotus Excel offers a distinctive driving experience that blends classic Lotus handling with a more refined and comfortable character. The steering is direct and communicative, providing excellent feedback. The suspension, while firm, soaks up bumps reasonably well. The 912 engine, while not a powerhouse, offers a decent amount of torque and a pleasant exhaust note. The Toyota gearbox is generally smooth and precise. However, the Excel is not without its quirks.
Pros:
- Excellent Handling: The Excel retains the classic Lotus handling characteristics, with a well-balanced chassis and responsive steering.
- Unique Styling: The Excel's angular styling is distinctive and stands out from the crowd.
- Relative Practicality: Compared to other Lotus models, the Excel offers more interior space and a larger trunk, making it more suitable for longer journeys.
- Toyota Gearbox: The reliable Toyota gearbox offers a smooth and precise shifting experience.
- Affordable Entry Point: The Excel can be a relatively affordable entry point into the world of Lotus ownership.
Cons:
- Maintenance Intensive: The Excel requires regular maintenance and attention to detail.
- Parts Availability: Some parts can be difficult to source and may be expensive.
- Electrical Gremlins: The electrical system can be prone to issues.
- Engine Performance: While adequate, the engine performance is not as thrilling as some other sports cars.
- Build Quality: While improved over earlier Lotus models, build quality can still be a concern.
Buying Advice
If you're considering buying a Lotus Excel, here's some advice:
- Year to Look For: The 1984-1992 (Phase 2/Final Specification) models are generally considered the most desirable due to the improved rear suspension and other refinements.
- What to Avoid: Avoid cars with significant rust, especially around the chassis and suspension mounting points. Also, be wary of cars with extensive modifications or poorly documented service history.
- Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a qualified mechanic with experience in Lotus cars perform a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Pay particular attention to the engine, gearbox, suspension, and chassis. Compression test, leakdown test, and thorough coolant system pressure test is a must.
- Service History: Look for a car with a complete and well-documented service history. Regular maintenance is crucial for the Excel.
- Budget Wisely: Factor in the cost of potential repairs and maintenance. Owning a classic Lotus requires a financial commitment.
- Condition is King: Prioritize condition over mileage. A well-maintained example with higher mileage is often a better choice than a low-mileage car that has been neglected.
- Check For Correct Parts: Ensure as many parts as possible are original, as aftermarket parts may fit poorly or underperform compared to the factory parts.
- Join a Lotus Owners Club: Joining a Lotus owners club can provide valuable resources, advice, and support.
The Lotus Excel is a rewarding car to own for the right enthusiast. With careful research, a thorough pre-purchase inspection, and a commitment to regular maintenance, you can enjoy the unique driving experience and classic styling that the Excel has to offer.
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