It was sad when Lotus gave up all their hopes and dreams of making plush super cars, but at leas they are back to doing what they do best, which is making fantastic sports cars. The 2017 Lotus Elise Cup 250 is the latest product of the Norfolk-based firm, and it’s a beast of a machine.

Replacing the Elise Cup 220, the new 250 brings new features to the table, such as a Lithium-ion battery which slashes 10 kg of the weight, carbon fibre seats, reducing the weight by 6 kg, and ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels, saving a further 1.5 kg. Lotus Elise Cup 250 just gives a whole new meaning to the company’s ‘Light is Right’ philosophy.

Weighing at 930 kg, the Elise Cup 250 comes as standard as a roadster but you can order a hard top as an option. Another option is a Carbon Aero Pack (consisting of front splitter, rear wing, rear diffuser and side floor-extensions) which shaves a further 10 kg off the weight of the car. Other improvement making the 250 a greater performance machine than its predecessor include re-calibrated ignition system, wider 195/50 R16 front tyres and more responsive steering.

Limited to 200 units per year, Lotus Elise Cup 250 is powered by a 243 hp (246 PS) and 250 Nm of torque 1.8 liter supercharged four-cylinder engine. The car does 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a 154 mph top speed. Eibach coaxial coil springs, AP Racing or Brembo brakes, Yokohama tires, Lotus Dynamic Performance Management System (with Sport setting), and Alcantara or leather interior are among the other highlights.

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