Lotus Exige GT3

The Exige GT3 is technically a concept, but Lotus says it will arrive in select markets later this year. There are a lot of reasons to hope the U.S. makes that list. For starters, the GT3 holds perhaps the most blistering adaptation of Lotus' familiar 1.8-liter engine. It's smaller than the motor in a Nissan Sentra, but thanks to the magic of supercharging and advanced variable valve timing, it churns out 271 horsepower.A six-speed manual is the only transmission available. With an aluminum chassis and suitably snug dimensions, the GT3 can scurry from zero to 60 mph in an estimated 3.9 seconds. That means it could outrun a 500-hp Lamborghini Gallardo — and thanks to a hefty 62 percent of its weight being perched over the rear axle, drivers could do victory donuts all night long.In reality, you probably wouldn't want to spend any more time than necessary in the cramped cabin. Based on Lotus' GT3 racecar, the road-going GT3 straps the driver and an unfortunate copilot into racing seats with optional four-point seatbelt harnesses. A four-speaker CD stereo is one of few amenities, but with the engine achieving peak power at a raucous 8,000 rpm, don't count on being able to hear the music.Outside, the GT3 looks much like the Exige S, which makes 218 hp — mere child's play! — and runs 0.2 seconds slower to 60 mph. The rear spoiler is laughably huge, but Lotus says it's entirely functional. It sits high above the trunk, increasing downforce and reducing wind resistance.Rounding things out are an adjustable suspension, gunmetal wheels and enormous cross-drilled brakes. At current exchange rates, Lotus says the production version of the Exige GT3 will cost around $106,000.

source : cars