It just goes to show how impressive the CSL really is....

[E46CSL]

Hang on to your CSLs.

[Mike R]

Discussion on The Lotus Forums about it for those interested.

https://www.thelotusforums.com/forum...p-380/?page=36

Well that explains the lap time then - the 380 Cup tested was well down on the claimed power, registering a lowly 343PS (same as a standard E46 M3). This would explain why in the fast straight sections the car was so slow - the extra drag from that wing and the power deficit meant that it was pulling speeds that didn't quite align with 380PS.

Reading the post, it seems that it is common for some cars to have a software issue in the map meaning some cars have low power. I have been in a mates 350 and felt the same thing at Snetterton, where it seems to hit an aerodynamic brick wall at 125mph.

Hopefully the 430 Cup with it's chargecooler arrangement will retain all the gee-gees and produce a better lap, as running forced induction without any sort of charge-cooling is going to mean huge intake temps with any kind of track work, which will mean the ECU will pull a load of ignition out and kill the power - not exactly ideal on a car that is sold on it's ability to dominate on the track......

[nw942]

Discussion on The Lotus Forums about it for those interested.

https://www.thelotusforums.com/forums/topic/88405-lotus-exige-cup-380/?page=36

[Mike R]

Nice post Mike.

Makes you wanting to ask Sport Auto to test again your CSL which has suspension, anti roll bars, brakes and new tyres

I reckon 7:40...

Make it happen !

[alexk]

Nice post Mike.

Makes you wanting to ask Sport Auto to test again your CSL which has suspension, anti roll bars, brakes and new tyres

I reckon 7:40...

[Manum3]

Yes ,
CSL rules! A true legend !

2003 15 years ago, a 7.50 per lap is still amazing.

Car drive and handle very well.

I Love my CSL , Can‘t Wait for Summer 2018.

[Chappers]

The Exige runs the lastest iteration of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s, so not sure .

I hear they're really good, everyone here should buy some immediately. From me.

[mick csl]

What's the CSL time ?

7:50

[Gazza]

What's the CSL time ?

[Mike R]

I wonder how much of that is down to tyres?

MC

The Exige runs the lastest iteration of the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s, so not sure .

[MisterCorn]

I wonder how much of that is down to tyres?

MC

[Mike R]

Sport Auto have just timed the Lotus Exige Cup 380 around the Nordschleife at 7.48.13 - not really that impressive when you consider the following:

1. The current circuit improvements are said to make the times 1-2 seconds faster.
2. The Exige is 300kg lighter.
3. The Exige has 25bhp more power and 56lb ft more torque.
4. The Exige has more downforce (200kg at it's 175mph top speed).

CSL is STILL right up there :supz: .