Lotus Evora 400
The Lotus Evora 400 represented a significant step forward for the Evora model and indeed for Lotus as a company. Taking the already excellent Evora platform — the first all-new Lotus in over a decade when it launched in 2009 — the 400 version added a larger Edelbrock supercharger to the Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V6, raising output to 400 horsepower. More importantly, Lotus stripped away weight wherever possible, shedding 22 kg from the standard Evora through extensive use of carbon fiber and lighter components. The result was devastating: sub-4.2-second 0-60 acceleration and a 186 mph top speed in a car that weighed under 1,400 kg. But as with all Lotuses, the numbers only tell half the story. The Evora 400 possessed a depth of handling feel and balance that made it one of the finest driver's cars of its era, capable of embarrassing far more expensive machinery on a twisting road. The hydraulic power steering communicated every nuance of road surface, while the manual gearbox had a precise, mechanical action that added to the driver engagement. The Evora 400 proved that Lotus, despite its small size and troubled finances, could still produce world-class sports cars.
The Toyota V6 is highly reliable and well-supported. Supercharger belt and intercooler need regular inspection. The bonded aluminum chassis doesn't rust but impact damage requires specialist repair. Check for oil leaks around the supercharger. Manual transmission clutch is robust but heavy. The 6-speed automatic (optional) is less engaging but perfectly adequate.
The Toyota 2GR-FE V6 was a proven reliable powerplant used across many Toyota/Lexus models. The Edelbrock supercharger was unique to the Lotus application. Later variants included the Evora GT410 Sport, GT430, and ultimate GT410 Final Edition. The bonded aluminum chassis was developed in-house by Lotus.