2008 Lotus Exige S 240: The Purest Driver's Car of Its Era
Technical Specifications
- Engine: Supercharged 1.8L Toyota 2ZZ-GE I4 (240hp @ 8,000rpm / 170 lb-ft @ 5,500rpm)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual (no automatic option)
- 0-60 mph: 3.9 seconds
- Top Speed: 150 mph (electronically limited)
- Curb Weight: 2,015 lbs (914 kg)
- Power-to-Weight: 8.4 lbs/hp
- Original MSRP: $62,990
- Current Value: $45,000-$65,000 (2024 collector market)
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The Philosophy of Lightness Personified
In an era when sports cars were beginning their relentless weight gain, the 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 stood as a defiant testament to Colin Chapman's "simplify, then add lightness" mantra. This track-focused machine delivered performance through minimalism rather than brute force:
Weight Savings
- Aluminum chassis: 150 lbs lighter than steel
- Fiberglass body panels: 40% lighter than metal
- Fixed-back seats: 22 lbs saved per side
- No sound deadening: 15 lbs eliminated
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Aerodynamic Features
- Front splitter: 25 lbs of downforce at 100mph
- Rear wing: 90 lbs of downforce at 100mph
- Underbody venturi tunnels
- 0.37 drag coefficient
Track-Ready Components
- AP Racing 4-piston calipers
- Bilstein dampers with Eibach springs
- Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires (semi-slick)
- Oil cooler and diffuser standard
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Driving Experience: Raw, Unfiltered Performance
On Track Behavior
Professional drivers noted:
- Turn-in: Immediate response with no slack
- Mid-corner: Neutral balance with slight lift-off oversteer
- Exit: Progressive power delivery allows early throttle
- Braking: 100-0 mph in 305 feet (better than contemporary 911)
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Street Compromises
The price of purity:
- Ride quality: 30% stiffer than Porsche Cayman S
- Noise levels: 82 dB at 70 mph (comparable to motorcycle)
- Entry/exit: Sill height requires gymnastic ability
- Cargo space: 5.7 cu-ft (small duffel bag capacity)
Owner's Perspective
"The Exige doesn't just communicate road feel - it narrates it in real-time with 4K resolution. You feel every pebble, every pavement seam, every subtle weight transfer. After driving one, other sports cars feel numb and disconnected." - 12-year Exige S owner
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Performance Comparison: Then and Now
| Model | 0-60 | Weight | Power | Skidpad | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 | 3.9s | 2,015 lbs | 240hp | 1.12g | $62,990 |
| 2008 Porsche Cayman S | 4.8s | 2,976 lbs | 295hp | 0.98g | $58,900 |
| 2024 Lotus Emira | 4.2s | 3,097 lbs | 400hp | 1.05g | $94,900 |
| 2024 Porsche 718 Cayman GTS | 3.9s | 3,241 lbs | 394hp | 1.10g | $89,400 |
The Exige's performance metrics remain impressive 16 years later, particularly its lateral grip and braking figures that still surpass many modern sports cars costing twice as much
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Ownership Experience: The Good, The Bad, The Rewarding
Maintenance Realities
- Engine reliability: Toyota-sourced 2ZZ is bulletproof
- Clutch life: 25-35k miles with track use
- Bodywork: Fiberglass cracks if flexed improperly
- Suspension bushings: Require replacement every 30k miles
Modern Daily Driving?
Challenges in 2024:
- Safety: No airbag or crash protection by modern standards
- Tech: AM/FM radio only (Bluetooth requires aftermarket)
- Visibility: 35% worse sightlines than contemporary cars
- Fuel economy: 18 city/26 highway (premium required)
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Collector Market and Investment Potential
Current Market Trends
- Appreciation: 15-20% over last 5 years
- Rarity: Only 342 U.S. deliveries for 2008 model year
- Desirable options: Track Pack, LSD, hardtop delete
- Color premiums:
- Color premiums: Chrome Orange (+15%), British Racing Green (+12%)
Future Outlook
Factors driving value:
- Last analog Lotus: Final model before electronic assists
- Toyota partnership: Ensures long-term parts availability
- Track day appeal: Still competitive in Time Attack events
- Cultural status: Featured in Forza/Gran Turismo games
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Buying Advice
Prioritize examples with documented service histories focusing on suspension refreshes and chassis inspections. Avoid modified cars unless upgrades were performed by recognized Lotus specialists. The sweet spot is 20,000-40,000 mile examples that have been driven regularly but not abused on track.
Legacy: Why the Exige Still Matters
The 2008 Exige S 240 represents the culmination of Lotus' lightweight philosophy before emissions and safety regulations forced compromise. Its enduring relevance stems from:
Driver Engagement
- Unassisted steering feel
- Mechanical limited-slip diff
- No stability control intervention
- Perfect pedal placement
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Performance Efficiency
- 0-60 within 0.3s of 2024 GR Corolla
- Out-brakes most $100k+ cars
- Consumes half the fuel of comparable V8s
- Tire costs 40% less than modern supercars
Cultural Impact
- Inspired Cayman GT4 RS development
- Proved forced induction could be responsive
- Demonstrated value of aerodynamics
- Last Lotus with Chapman-era DNA
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MotorVero's Verdict
The 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 remains one of the purest driver's cars ever made - a focused instrument that prioritizes connection over comfort. While newer sports cars offer more power and technology, none deliver the Exige's unfiltered feedback and tactile satisfaction. For enthusiasts who value the quality of driving experience over quantitative metrics, this lightweight British bruiser has aged into an increasingly desirable modern classic.
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