Lotus Eclat
The wedge-shaped grand tourer that brought 2.2-litre torque and a galvanised chassis to the Eclat range.
- Power
- 160 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 7.1 s
- Top speed
- 132 mph
- Est. value
- $8k–$25k
About the Lotus Eclat
Introduced in 1980, the Eclat 2.2 (Series 2) addressed the reliability and performance concerns of the original model by adopting the enlarged 2,174cc Type 912 engine. While peak power remained at 160 bhp, the increased torque significantly improved mid-range drivability and real-world pace. This generation also introduced a galvanised steel backbone chassis, drastically improving the car's longevity against corrosion compared to earlier units. With its Oliver Winterbottom-designed fastback styling and Lotus-tuned independent suspension, it remains a sharp-handling, lightweight alternative to contemporary grand tourers.
Lotus Eclat specs
The Lotus Eclat produces 160 bhp (119 kW) and 217 Nm (160 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 7.1 seconds and has a top speed of 132 mph (212 km/h).
| Make | Lotus |
|---|---|
| Model | Eclat |
| Trim | 2.2 |
| Years | 1980–1982 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 1,522 built |
| Engine | 2.2-litre Lotus 912 inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,174 cc (2.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 160 bhp (119 kW) at 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 217 Nm (160 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 7.1 s |
| Top speed | 132 mph (212 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,066 kg (2,350 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 150 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Lotus Eclat worth?
A typical Lotus Eclat is estimated to be worth $8,000 – $25,000 (about £6,000 – £19,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Lotus Eclat rarity in CarSpot
The Lotus Eclat is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 47 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Lotus Eclat fun facts
- The 2.2-litre Series 2 models were the first to feature a factory-galvanised chassis, solving the rust issues that plagued early 1970s Lotus cars.
- The Eclat was originally intended to be called the 'Elite Coupe' before Lotus decided on a separate nameplate to distinguish its fastback profile.
- Despite its sports car looks, the Eclat 2.2 shared its Type 912 engine with the legendary Talbot Sunbeam Lotus rally car.
