Lotus Circuit Car

Based on the more mainstream Elise/Exige, the Circuit Car will be built in limited numbers from mid-2006 at Lotus headquarters in Hethel. Like its ultra-nimble Exige sibling, it features lightweight composite bodywork and a Toyota-sourced 1.8-litre VVT-I engine.

However, where the Exige's engine makes do with air gulped in at atmospheric pressure, the Circuit Car uses forced induction as a metaphoric firecracker up the backside. The Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger with air-to-air intercooler lifts power and torque to 181kW and 236Nm respectively.

Mathematical geniuses will deduce that it adds up to a power-to-weight ratio superior to the Porsche 911 Turbo or any Ferrari available here. Or, to put it another way, try 0-160km/h in 9.0 seconds. If this sounds a bit too much to handle, take heart: Lotus also plans to offer an entry-level model with a 141kW/181Nm 'atmo' engine.

Drive is relayed to the wheels by a six-speed close-ratio gearbox that's linked to an open-slip differential and a new traction control system, while suspension and damping is provided by fully independent unequal length wishbones, Eibach coil springs, Ohlins two-way adjustable dampers and an adjustable front anti-roll bar.

Eyeball-bulging stopping power is virtually guaranteed, courtesy of Lotus/AP 282mm diameter cross-drilled, ventilated discs -- backed up by a race-tuned four-channel ABS system.

The lightweight GRP composite bodywork is bolted to the chassis for easy removal to enable routine maintenance and race preparation. Aerodynamic downforce is also a strong suit -- a deep front splitter, flat bottom and large single plane rear wing ensure the car keeps in contact with terra firma.

How many will they build? Lotus says it will flog just 100 Circuit Cars per year globally. It will retail for the equivalent of $75,000 in the UK, but taking delivery of one here would undoubtedly involve an outlay of well over $100K. Lotus Cars Australia says it will import a "limited number", depending on demand.