Lotus Elite, Eclat and Excel: books - history

Lotus Elite, Eclat and Excel - An Enthusiast's Guide

In 1974, Lotus introduced the Type 75 Elite, a four-seater coupe with a glass tailgate. Designed for comfort while maintaining Lotus' renowned handling, it marked Colin Chapman's first step toward a more premium image, moving away from the brand's kit car origins.

The Elite led to two variants: the Eclat and the Excel. The Eclat, a sleeker coupe, sacrificed the Elite's distinctive rear styling and headroom for a more conventional design, making it more commercially successful. The Excel, derived from the Eclat, was the final evolution of this lineage.

Author Matthew Vale explores the history of these unique Lotus models and provides a comprehensive guide for prospective buyers and current owners.

Product details

Lotus Elite & Eclat (1974-1982) - Brooklands Portfolio

The 1974 Elite 4-seat hatchback was the first of three larger and more expensive Lotus models intended to replace the Elan and Europe. The cheaper Eclat fastback was based on the same chassis.
This Brooklands Portfolio book celebrates the Lotus Elite types 75 and 83, S1 and S2.2 Along with the Eclat / Sprint types 76 and 84, S1 and S2.2 from the years 1974-1982.

• The articles, taken from contemporary British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and technology.
• Also driving impressions, tests, comparison tests, technical specifications, etc.
• Offers also advice for the purchase of a pre-owned Lotus Elite or Eclat.

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More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books

Lotus Excel (1982-1992) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book about the 4-zits Lotus Excel models from the years 1982-1992, which the Eclat vervingen. Describes the Lotus Excel, SE and SA.

• The articles, taken from contemporary British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and technology.
• Also driving impressions, tests, comparison tests, technical specifications, etc.
• Offers also advice for the purchase of a pre-owned Lotus Excel.

Product details

More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books

Lotus Elite : Colin Chapman's first GT Car

The Lotus Elite, first produced in the late 1950s, marked a significant change for Lotus. It transitioned the company from making small racing cars with limited road use to producing advanced road and race cars. With its fiberglass monocoque body and Coventry Climax engine, the Elite had the potential to be a world-class competitor.

This book explores the reasons behind the Elite's creation and its importance in Lotus' history, particularly in developing lightweight, innovative vehicles. Through interviews with Elite owners, the book provides a detailed look at the ownership experience, highlighting the car's unique characteristics, as well as its excellent handling, road performance, and reliability.

Featuring numerous color photos and period advertising, the book offers valuable insights into owning, maintaining, and racing one of Lotus' iconic cars.

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Lotus Elite (1957-1964) - Brooklands Portfolio

Brooklands Portfolio book about Lotus Elite models from the years 1957-1964.

• The articles, taken from contemporary British and American car magazines, provide much information about history, model changes and technology.
• Also driving impressions, tests, comparison tests, technical specifications, etc.

Product details

More information on the Brooklands Portfolio books