Lotus Elite, Eclat and Excel

Lotus introduced the Type 75 Elite in 1974. Being a full four-seater coupe with an opening glass tailgate, it was designed to carry a family in comfort while retaining Lotus'' trademark, excellent road holding and handling. Perhaps most importantly, it was the first - and successful - step in Colin Chapman''s plan to move upmarket and away from Lotus'' kit car image. The Elite gave rise to two ...