Lotus has launched the Exige LF1, a new version of its Exige S. The LF1 badge comes to commemorate the brand's 81 F1 grand prix wins to date.

 

Fittingly, only 81 LF1s will be made, each benefitting from unique finishes and myriad upgrades. The most notable revision, compared to the standard S, is the adoption of a bespoke black-and-gold paint scheme which is designed to evoke memories of Lotus's F1 livery from the 1970s and 1980s.

 

Other cosmetic changes include matte gold alloy wheels, red brake calipers, black-and-gold badging and interior trim, and an individually numbered limited edition carbonfibre build plate.

Bolstering the standard Exige S's specification further, is the addition of high-performance Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo tyres, more powerful two-piece floating disc brakes and air conditioning.

 

The LF1 additionally includes Lotus' 'Race Pack' as standard, which adds launch control, an exhaust bypass valve override switch, retuned suspension to suit the new tyres and a four-mode stability system.

 

Performance remains otherwise unchanged. The 1176kg LF1's supercharged 3.5-litre V6 engine produces 345bhp and 40.8kgm, allowing for a claimed 0-100kph time of 4.0sec and a top speed of 274kph.

 

Buyers of LF1s also get goodies like a 1:2 scale replica of Romain Grosjean's helmet and a Lotus F1-branded USB stick.

 

Options include rear parking sensors, heated seats and a convenience pack that adds cruise control, USB connectivity, a cupholder and a trinket tray divider.