Lotus Exige S3
The supercar-slaying lightweight that redefined the V6 Exige's performance envelope.
- Power
- 375 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 3.5 s
- Top speed
- 178 mph
About the Lotus Exige S3
Launched in late 2016 as the fastest Exige to date, the Sport 380 was a significant evolution of the Series 3 platform. It utilised a revised supercharger pulley and uprated fuel pump to extract 375 bhp from its Toyota-sourced V6, paired with a weight-saving programme that included a polycarbonate rear window and carbon-fibre racing seats. The car is celebrated for its raw, unassisted steering and the tactile exposed gear-change linkage that became a hallmark of late-model Lotuses. With 140 kg of downforce at its 178 mph top speed, it offered track-focused stability that challenged much more expensive machinery.
Lotus Exige S3 specs
The Lotus Exige S3 produces 375 bhp (280 kW) and 410 Nm (302 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and has a top speed of 178 mph (286 km/h).
| Make | Lotus |
|---|---|
| Model | Exige |
| Generation | S3 |
| Trim | Exige Sport 380 |
| Years | 2012–2021 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 10,497 built |
| Engine | 3.5-litre supercharged V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,456 cc (3.5 litres) |
| Induction | Supercharged |
| Power | 375 bhp (280 kW) at 6,700 rpm |
| Torque | 410 Nm (302 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 7,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 3.5 s |
| Top speed | 178 mph (286 km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,110 kg (2,447 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 338 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Lotus Exige S3 rarity in CarSpot
The Lotus Exige S3 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 46 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 Exige S3 fun facts
- The Sport 380 features a distinctive rear transom design with just two light clusters instead of the usual four, saving 0.3 kg.
- It was the first Exige to be fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres as standard, specifically tuned by Michelin engineers at Hethel.
- Despite the extreme focus on weight saving, Lotus actually increased the fuel tank size to 48 litres to improve the car's touring range.
