Lotus Excel driving impressions

[richardcox_lotus]

Hi All

Following on from the Plus 2 driving impressions thread, I thought that I’d see if there is anyone who has moved on from an Elan to an Excel, and what their thoughts are. Given the Plus 2 is recognised as being more of a relaxed tourer than an Elan, does the Excel continue that theme, or does it try and stay as lively as the Elan ?

All contributions welcome

Regards
Richard

[gherlt]

As far as I remember it the Excel was a great test drive, vivid and precise, yet comfy.
Not big enough in the back for my children, so I did not buy it. Bought a 993, was great too. Sold soon as too expensive overall. Kind of regret not having bought the Excel

[h20hamelan]

Depends on drivetrain

[Slowtus]

Never owned an Excel but did have a type 75 Elite, so a similar car and I would categorise it as a lot closer to the Plus 2 than the Elan but with useable rear seats. Slower off the line but went round the corners much more 'flat' than the Plus 2.

And definitely a lot more comfortable all round versus the Plus 2, especially on long trips. And more comfortable than the S1 Esprit.

That said, if I ever buy another Lotus it will be a Plus 2

[cliveyboy]

My first Lotus was an Excel SE.
I loved it as it was so enjoyable to drive. Comfortable, reliable with aircon etc. It was said to be the best handling front engine/rear wheel drive car at the time.
If I had to choose between an Excel and Plus 2 I would probably go for the Plus 2 as it has the looks and is much more of a classic car.
Saying that if I were to buy a 2+2 it would most likely be an Evora. Early ones are now similar money to a really nice Plus 2
Clive

[RobertMaulden]

Used two Excel SE's as everyday cars for some years, covering around 150k miles in total.

Excellent reliability (many Toyota parts of course) & easy to look after at home.

I also tracked one of them, & was very impressed.

A better car by far than a +2 (owned a 130/5) but it's not really a fair comparison.

From what I have seen, prices of good cars with history are on the rise, but still affordable atm.

Have owned many Lotus cars & still have an S2 Elan that has been mine for 35 years.

[cliveyboy]

Visited the NEC classic car show at the weekend.
There was an old battered Excel on the Club Lotus stand which the driver used everyday. He was not precious about it as he put a sign up saying please feel free to touch and sit in.
Thats an owner who appreciates his Excel and wants to let others know about it.