When you think of a Lotus you'd be forgiven for not recalling the Excel.

In 1982 an evolution of the Eclat, the Lotus Excel (a.k.a.

Eclat Excel) was introduced and praised by the contemporary motoring press for its strong performance and superlative handling, as you'd expect of a Lotus.

The newcomer utilised a galvanised version of Lotus' iconic 'backbone' chassis equipped with all-round coil-over independent suspension, four-wheel disc brakes and high-geared rack and pinion steering.

It is ably powered by Lotus's own 2174cc DOHC four-cylinder engine.

This particular Excel, presented in Glacier Blue Metallic paintwork with a very period Blue half leather/velour trim benefits from a desirable factory specification including power steering, half leather and Speedline wheels.

The 5 th of just 14 1985 Excels produced in this specification, ‘C580 HKP’ was manufactured on the 25th of January 1985, ready for the 85 model year, registered on 1st May and delivered on 03 July.

This partic...