Lotus: Cars 1952 to 2024 & Elite 2 Book Set

This compact and richly illustrated book is part of the popular A Pictorial History series and charts the full journey of Lotus road cars from 1952 through to 2024. Enthusiasts, collectors, and motorsport fans will discover a chronicle of innovation, style, and pure driving excitement that only Lotus can deliver.

From the lightweight brilliance of the Lotus Seven to the exotic Esprit and modern Evora, each model is examined with rare and previously unpublished photographs, capturing the elegance and engineering genius of the marque. Author Matthew Vale — a recognized expert on Lotus — brings his extensive knowledge and passion to this sixth Lotus title, offering clear insight into the brand’s heritage and technical evolution.

The book also explores how Lotus’ racing pedigree shaped its road cars, resulting in vehicles that deliver exceptional handling and performance.

Whether you're a seasoned Lotus devotee or new to the marque, this compact visual history is a must-have addition to your automotive library.

• A definitive visual guide to every Lotus road car from 1952 to 2024
• Over 200 rare and never-before-published images in one collectible volume
• Written by Matthew Vale — respected author of six books on Lotus and 20+ automotive titles

Table of Contents:

1. Chapter 1 Introduction
2. Chapter 2 Lotus VI
3. Chapter 3 Lotus Elite
4. Chapter 4 Lotus Seven
5. Chapter 5 Lotus Elan
6. Chapter 6 Lotus Elan Plus 2
7. Chapter 7 Lotus Elite and Eclat
8. Chapter 8 Lotus Esprit
9. Chapter 9 Lotus Excel
10. Chapter 10 Lotus Elan M100
11. Chapter 11 Lotus Elise
12. Chapter 12 Lotus Exige
13. Chapter 12 Lotus Evora

The Lotus Elite was a turning point for Lotus. First produced at the end of the 1950s, it marked Lotus’ transition from a maker of small racing cars, which had limited utility on the road, to the producer of a highly sophisticated road and race car. In the Elite, Lotus exploited its knowledge of new technology and racing pedigree to produce a car which, with its glass fibre monocoque and Coventry Climax engine, had the potential to be a world beater.

This book gives an insight into the reasons the car was produced and its importance in Lotus’ history, especially in the production of lightweight innovative cars. Through interviews with Elite owners, first hand accounts provide a good overview of owning one of these iconic cars, covering its foibles and quirks as well as its exemplary roadholding, handling and performance. Illustrated with many colour photographs, along with period advertising material, the book provides a valuable insight into owning, running and racing these iconic cars.