Lotus produced the Opel Speedster between 2001 and 2005. It was a light-weight car that featured an aluminum chassis as found on the Elise. In spite of its rather lowly specs, it still managed Ferrari accelerations, maneuverability and gave drivers sporting pleasure at considerably low prices.
In its early days, the Speedster carried a 134 cui 16-valve Ecotec L61 engine provided by GM. This one was meant for just 147 bhp.
From 2003, the company brought in a more powerful version that had a 122 cui turbocharged engine. With this one 200 bhp was achievable and did 151 mph at the top speed. It could also ride fast enough taking 4.7 secs to hit 60mph from a standstill.
In some way, Lotus was being experimental by producing low power cars with amazing sporty design and affordable prices. This is not something we see every day from automakers and it was interesting to see the company get some good response from the market.
Nonetheless, the production of the Lotus ended in 2005 without a replacement. The secret to the Opel Speedster’s astonishing performance can be attributed to low weight and great distribution of power per weight ratio.
The Opel Speedster Turbo weighs 1,980 lbs and this explains its capabilities. In comparison, the likes of the Ferrari Enzo and Porsche Carrera GT that generally produces more than 600 bhp will way well above 3,200 lbs.
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