The Lotus Elise S Cup R has been released for overseas markets, presenting enthusiasts with a track-only race-ready version of the iconic British sports car.
Based on the 162kW/250Nm supercharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder-powered Elise S, the Lotus Elise S Cup R sits below the hardcore 258kW/400Nm Exige V6 Cup R and marks the first time the smaller-capacity engine has been used in a Cup variant.
Tied to a six-speed manual transmission, the Lotus Elise S Cup R gains a motorsport-specific engine control unit (ECU) and an aggressive aero package comprising a front splitter with winglets, side skirts, rear diffuser, floor extensions and a rear wing.
Adjustable dampers and springs also join an upgraded brake package with track pads, 288mm front and rear cross-drilled and ventilated discs and AP Racing two-piston front and Brembo single-piston rear calipers.
With bespoke livery and a hardtop roof ensuring the tiny but mighty racer looks the part on the outside, an FIA-compliant rollcage, Hans-compliant race seat with six-point harness and a quick-release steering wheel confirm the car’s circuit intentions.
Helping to maintain the road car’s lightweight (924kg) figure are a polycarbonate rear screen and forged alloy wheels (16-inch front, 17-inch rear) wrapped in Yokohama rubber.
Optional equipment includes air conditioning, a passenger seat and ultra-lightweight motorsport wheels.
Lotus claims over a 5km lap, the Cup R will cut four seconds off the time of the standard Elise S.
Priced at £39,125 ($66,800) in the UK, the Lotus Elise S Cup R is currently being evaluated for our market, with availability and pricing at the heart of discussions.
If approved, the Elise-based Cup R will become the first Cup R model to come to Australia with the Exige V6 Cup R also still being evaluated.
The Lotus Elise S Cup R is eligible to compete in the production class of the 2014 Lotus Cup series, which covers series in the UK, Europe, Italy, the USA, Japan, Thailand and China and the Lotus Ladies Cup.
