Good (out of the box) track oriented cars

So I finally got to drive the Sport 350 today.

The goods news is that I'm now able to get in and out of the car with "relative" ease. I'm starting to see this as a small price to pay for such a special car.

The Good:
* The ride - I was hugely surprised with how well the suspension coped with your average UK road surface and (more importantly speed humps). I rides far better than my GP.
* Seating position - Back when I first sat in the car, I was concerned that would would be sat too high. After driving he car on the road, I've come to the conclusion that it's not as bad as I thought it would be. Visibility was perfect.
* Engine - This is the first V6 powered are I've ever driven . In fact... This is the first supercharged car I've ever driven on road. Unlike the Mini's 1.6 4 pot. This V6 was both sharp, linear and silky smooth.

The not so Good:
* Pedals - Probably not fair, as I had only driven the car for about 20 mins. The pedal positioning (and perhaps width) did feel a little off... Making it difficult for me to rev match / heel and toe.
* Getting in and out - Yes it's a bit of a pain. But is it a pain that I am prepared to live with? I think so!

Overall its a fantastic car. And offered up so many surprises.

Whats next?

I've been given a price list. So plan to review that over the coming weeks. I'm also going to look into signing up to the Lotus Academy. This should give me the opportunity to really explore this car's potential.

I think this could end up replacing the GP!
 
"..the only thing I would say is that performance doesn't necessarily equate to more fun.." I couldnt agree more with this comment. I purchased the Mini GP after a 3/4 month period with a brand new M135i. For me it was a great move as I found the GP way more enjoyable.

I think the only reason I haven't considered the Elise is because I prefer the overall look of the Exige.

With regards to getting a race car. This is out of the question as the car will be used for the odd spirited drive / weekend drive.
 
So I recently tested a second Exige Sport 350!

  • 0 sound insulation
  • No entertainment system
  • Harness bar and harnesses
Apart from the colour (British Green), I really liked it. I had about an hour with the car. By the end of the test drive I was left with 0 doubt. The Exige will be the next car.
 
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