The Lotus 3-Eleven is an extreme, track-focused sports car produced in limited numbers from 2015-2017, representing Lotus's most hardcore road-legal offering. The 3-Eleven features Toyota's supercharged 3.5-liter 2GR-FE V6 engine producing 416 horsepower at 7,000 rpm in "regular" specification or 460 horsepower in Race variant, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission with open-gate shifter driving the rear wheels. The name references Lotus's historic Type 11 race car while indicating three wheels per ton power-to-weight ratio (3 wheels supporting 1 ton of weight).
Weighing just 2,028-2,039 pounds depending on specification through aggressive use of carbon fiber bodywork, minimal equipment, and racing-oriented construction, the 3-Eleven achieves extraordinary performance: 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds (Race model), 0-100 mph in 6.8 seconds, with Hethel track lap times faster than many purpose-built race cars. The open-cockpit design with removable windscreen provides unfiltered driving experience with exposed mechanicals and visceral sensations. The bonded and extruded aluminum chassis with carbon fiber bodywork, adjustable Öhlins or Nitron dampers, Eibach springs, AP Racing brakes, and sophisticated aerodynamics generate significant downforce. The 3-Eleven targets ultra-wealthy track day enthusiasts and collectors seeking the ultimate Lotus experience, offering near-Formula car performance with (limited) road legality. Limited production of approximately 311 units worldwide increases exclusivity and collectibility. The 3-Eleven represents Colin Chapman's "simplify, then add lightness" philosophy taken to extremes, delivering one of the highest power-to-weight ratios of any road-legal car while maintaining Lotus's legendary chassis engineering and handling dynamics that defined the brand for over 70 years.
Lotus