Hi, I’m Andrew, and today, we’ll break down the Lotus Emira’s pros and cons, comparing it to some formidable rivals like the Porsche Cayman, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z4, Toyota Supra, and even the Chevrolet Corvette.
Pricing and Competitors
Lotus carries an exotic mystique, and with that comes a premium price tag. The first edition of the Amira, equipped with a V6, starts at $100,000 and can be spec’ed up to $110,000. In comparison, the Porsche Cayman GTS 4.0 is similarly priced at $100,000, offering reliability and superb handling.
On the American side, the Corvette Stingray starts at a more affordable $70,000, featuring a naturally aspirated V8. Meanwhile, the Toyota Supra and BMW M240i offer alternatives in the $50,000 range, making the Lotus a pricier but more bespoke option.
Storage and Practicality
Being a mid-engine sports car, the Emira sacrifices storage space for driving dynamics. It offers just 4 cubic feet of trunk space and lacks a front trunk (frunk).
For comparison:
- Porsche Cayman: 10 cubic feet in the trunk plus an additional 5 cubic feet in the frunk.
- Corvette Stingray: Over 12 cubic feet, including a frunk.
- Toyota Supra: Around 10 cubic feet.
The Emira does feature a small parcel shelf behind the front seats, but storage isn’t its strong suit. If you’re considering this car, practicality probably isn’t a top priority.
Daily Drivability
The Emira is a significant step forward in daily usability compared to past Lotus models like the Elise or Exige. It now features modern amenities like Apple CarPlay, heated seats, and leather-trimmed interiors, making it more livable.
However, rivals like the BMW Z4, Corvette, and Porsche 718 twins are more refined for everyday driving. The Emira’s ride is stiffer, and its shifter throws could be more precise—possibly due to wear from its press-car status.
Design and Build Quality
The Emira’s design is breathtaking. It’s small, exotic, and undeniably Lotus. Notable features include:
- Aggressive hood channels and flared rear hips.
- 20-inch Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires (245mm front, 295mm rear).
- A glass engine cover showcasing the mid-mounted V6.
- Dual exhausts midway up the bumper.
However, there are minor drawbacks:
- No sunroof or carbon-fiber roof option.
- Lack of a nose-lift system, which could be helpful given the low front end.
- Some interior squeaks and visible wear on the white leather seats.
Performance
The heart of the Emira is its Toyota-sourced 3.5L supercharged V6, producing 400 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual, it delivers 0–60 mph in about 4 seconds. For those seeking a more affordable option, the 2.0L AMG-sourced turbocharged four-cylinder is also available.
This car excels in driving dynamics:
- Chassis: Rigid and perfectly tuned for canyon roads.
- Steering: Communicative and precise.
- Brakes: Provide excellent feel and stopping power.
At 3,200 pounds, the Emira feels light and nimble, true to Lotus’s philosophy of “simplify and add lightness.”
Technology and Features
While not overflowing with tech, the Amira offers essential features for a modern sports car. A fully digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and performance pages provide useful information and connectivity. However, some features like a 360-degree camera or head-up display are missing at this price point.
Small quirks, like the exposed shifter mechanics and climate controls with racing helmet icons, add character to the interior. The focus remains on delivering an authentic driving experience rather than unnecessary frills.
