2001 LOTUS EXIGE S1

This 2001 Lotus Exige S1 is an engaging featherweight sports car, finished in the eye-catching factory hue of Chrome Orange. Under the rear engine cover is the 177bhp 1.8-litre K-series inline-four, which is driven through the rear wheels via a slick five-speed manual transmission. This, combined with a kerb weight of just 780kg, allows the Exige to sprint from 0-62mph in a claimed 4.7 seconds. The odometer displays 53,481 miles from new.

First registered on 19 December 2001, this Series 1 Exige is understood to be one of only 604 examples produced, and is now offered for sale by the vendor on the behalf of a probate client. While it is road registered, the car is not currently taxed, nor does it have a valid MOT.

Today, the car’s bodywork structure appears to be in good order, and is not believed to have suffered from any collision damage. However, while the vibrant Chrome Orange paintwork helps to set this Exige apart from the crowd, the finish is in poor condition. Indeed, there are various marks, blemishes and minor signs of damage around the entire car, including scratches and scuffs on both of its sides and all four wheel arches, stone chips on the nose and scrapes on the underside of the front bumper.

Furthermore, the carbon-effect protective film ahead of the rear wheel arches has been worn through, and there is a crack in the paintwork on the front passenger-side wheel arch, exposing the bare fibreglass panel below. This Exige rides on the correct set of 16-inch alloy wheels, which are finished in satin black and would benefit from refurbishment in due course as a result of the numerous chips and scuffs on their surfaces.

Moving inside, the car still features its original bucket seats, which are trimmed in black leather and Alcantara, accented by white ‘Exige’ logos embroidered on the headrests. While the passenger seat presents reasonably well, the driver’s seat features significant wear and tear, with marks on its outer bolster, and damage to the Alcantara seat base including a torn section. Ahead, the steering wheel features a black Alcantara centre, while its rim is wrapped in black leather, and is in good overall condition. The seller also notes that the leather covering the driver’s side sill cover is holed, the floor mats are worn and some of the rubber trim above the passenger seat has become detached. On starting the car, the seller has not identified any faults with its electrical items, and there are no warning lights displayed on the dashboard.

Unfortunately, there is no service history with the car; however the vendor states that it does start and run. In addition, the battery needs to be replaced, and the original keys are missing. A replacement key was made to allow the car to be unlocked and started, though the alarm and immobiliser had to be bypassed to achieve this.

This Exige’s last MOT test was conducted on 26 May 2016 at 53,481 miles, which it passed after the front windscreen wiper was replaced, the nearside front position lamp was changed and an emissions issue was corrected. Advisory notices were issued for a slight oil leak, wear to the inner edges of all four tyres, and a minor exhaust leak. All four wheels are fitted with Yokohama Advan A046 tyres, which are road legal but are well worn.

This 2001 Lotus Exige is offered for sale in running order, and could represent a good value route into the model, or a straightforward improvement project for an enthusiast. While there are a number of cosmetic issues which need to be addressed to bring it up to a good standard – and the car would undoubtedly benefit from a thorough inspection and service – this Exige could be an ideal candidate for motorsport or track days, where its agile handling, sublime chassis and capable K-Series engine can be enjoyed to their full potential.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.