1992 Vauxhall Lotus Carlton

The Lotus Carlton was a Vauxhall Carlton upgraded by Lotus Cars to be a 177 mph sports saloon with acceleration to equal contemporary supercars. When released, it was the fastest 4-door saloon car in the world. The external differences were minimal with the addition of a rear spoiler, air intakes on the bonnet, Lotus badges on the front wings and bootlid, a bodykit and considerably wider wheel arches distinguishing it from a standard Carlton. The car was only sold in one colour, a shade of British racing green called Imperial Green, a very dark green that in anything but direct light appears black.

Lotus re-worked the 2969cc 24V straight six used in the Carlton GSi and bored it out to 3615cc. In addition, twin Garrett T25 turbochargers were attached resulting in 377bhp and torque at 419lb ft. Power was transmitted through a six speed ZF manual gearbox and power was driven to the rear wheels via an LSD. The brakes were supplied by AP and were 330mm ventilated discs all round with racing callipers.

This lot potentially represents the last opportunity to acquire a one-owner from new example of this much under-appreciated modern classic. Boasting every service in the book to its current 114,000 miles, this increasingly rare right hand drive Lotus Carlton has been regularly maintained by its only keeper to the tune of £39,000 in service and maintenance cost alone. Included in the history file is the original bill of sale at a whopping £49,750, which by today's standard's is perhaps more Super Car than Super Saloon!

Cosmetically, the car is sold in standard condition with no unnecessary upgrades or amendments from original specification. You will find the interior in an honest condition, fair to the car's age and mileage, but not scruffy. The alloy wheels have been freshly refurbished ahead of the auction and the bodywork and paint are in pleasing condition. The cherished license plate 'J20 JJH' remains with the car and will be sold as part of the Lot. Now offered for sale for the first time since delivery in 1992, this is one of just 320 Carlton's in right hand drive configuration and one with many more years of motoring ahead of it. This Lot is sold with fresh MoT test certificate, a comprehensive service history file and V5C registration certificate.