Lotus 2-Eleven Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Lotus 2-Eleven

Introduced in 2007, the Lotus 2-Eleven was designed as a dedicated track day car with a minimalistic philosophy, echoing the core principles of the British marque. Inspired by the original Lotus Seven, the 2-Eleven shed non-essential weight to maximise agility and acceleration. Production was limited, and each unit was finely tuned for enthusiasts seeking the most direct connection between driver and machine. Rooted in Lotus’s post-war tradition of lightweight sports cars, the 2-Eleven continued the brand’s commitment to innovation and competition-grade engineering.

Model History

The 2-Eleven drew its lineage from the successful Lotus Exige S, sharing its bonded aluminium chassis tub, double wishbone suspension, and supercharged Toyota 2ZZ-GE powertrain. It succeeded the earlier Lotus Elise-based Cup cars and filled a niche for drivers desiring something more radical than the Exige but less all-out than a full race car. While there was no direct successor, the philosophy of the 2-Eleven influenced later Lotus track cars, particularly the 3-Eleven. The 2-Eleven was offered in both track-only and road-legal variants, with most examples built to be as minimalist as possible.

Highlights of the Lotus 2-Eleven

The Lotus 2-Eleven’s most striking feature is its extreme weight saving, with an unladen mass of just 670 kg. Its supercharged 1.8-litre engine delivers 252 bhp, yielding a power-to-weight ratio that’s typically reserved for high-end racing prototypes. The car was available both as a pure track variant and a road-legal package. Its track-optimised aerodynamics, including a substantial rear wing and splitter, facilitate extraordinary grip and cornering speeds. Pricing started at just under £40,000, with minimal comfort or convenience features to maintain its driver-centric ethos.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

While the 2-Eleven was already positioned as a limited-production model, buyers could opt for a fully road-legal package for an additional £1,100. No numbered or named special editions are documented, but the distinction between track-only and road-legal versions adds to the collectibility of the rarer street-homologated cars.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific widespread weaknesses are documented for the 2-Eleven in the available information. However, as with most track-oriented vehicles, buyers should inspect for typical wear on suspension components, brakes, and the supercharger system due to circuit use. Regular maintenance of lightweight chassis components and ensuring correct settings for track versus road use are advisable.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

With 252 bhp moving only 670 kg, the Lotus 2-Eleven delivers electrifying acceleration and tactile precision on track. The 2ZZ-GE Yamaha-designed, Toyota-built engine is robust and high-revving, mated to a crisp 6-speed manual gearbox. The sophisticated suspension and purposeful aerodynamics foster extreme levels of grip and minimal body roll. Steering feel is direct and communicative, attributes revered by track drivers. The braking system, sourced from AP Racing, provides dependable stopping power during spirited sessions. Among Lotus offerings, the 2-Eleven stands out as the sole representative in its micro-niche according to supply and demand figures—every available Lotus in this segment is a 2-Eleven, confirming its focal role for collectors and circuit aficionados.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Lotus 2-Eleven’s design philosophy prioritises function over comfort. Its open-cockpit layout is dominated by lightweight composite materials, a stripped dashboard, and minimal weather protection. The car is equipped with a prominent front splitter, side aero elements, and a substantial rear wing—all focused on optimising downforce. Lightweight alloy wheels and exposed rivets hint at the vehicle’s uncompromising intent. Most examples forgo carpeting and HVAC, with some road-legal variants including more basic comforts to meet homologation requirements. Paint finishes and livery are often tailored to the owner, with factory options sometimes including distinctive Lotus racing colours.

Other Features

Given the car’s specialist focus, the 2-Eleven offers little in the way of optional extras. However, its suitability for motorsport modifications—including harnesses, roll cages, and telemetry—make it a popular base for amateur and semi-pro racers. The detachable steering wheel and quick-release mechanisms further highlight the 2-Eleven’s focus on hardcore usability.

Summary

The Lotus 2-Eleven condenses the brand’s motorsport DNA into a minimalist, track-focused platform. Combining a highly tuned supercharged Toyota engine with an ultralight chassis, the 2-Eleven delivers a raw, immersive driving experience. Its production numbers, road-legal options, and purpose-driven design continue to position the 2-Eleven as a purist’s tool for circuit driving, with an established profile within the Lotus community as seen in our supply and demand statistics.