Espirite and AE86?

DjSpecter · Post by **DjSpecter** » Wed Feb 18, 2009 1:23 am

Im just curious but as I was driving on my way to work today I spotted what looked like to be a AE86 hatchback but what turned out to be a Lotus Espirit. I got out and took rear end pics cause tve tail lights are from a AE86 hatchback. Was lotus part of Toyota or vise versa? I got a pic and a walk around vid of it.

Post by **CBR_TOY** » Wed Feb 18, 2009 1:24 am

well post them up!

Post by **dr.occa** » Wed Feb 18, 2009 9:54 am

yes, lotus was working with toyota.

for a couple of decades now, it's been contended if the MR2 was a lotus intended model or not. Toyota was one of a few major share holders of Lotus inc i believe.

some say, the team up was primarily to take advantage of toyota's market ability: to sell as a practical and affordable toyota sports car what the general public would view as an impractical and unaffordable sports car if badge with a lotus emblem.

Lotus ENGINEERING was involved in the design of the 4AG. They were specifically responsible for the AW11's suspension and handling response. Lotus was also involved in the zz series engines in the latest corolla and mrs engines.

Lotus was also involved in the design of the isuzu impulse (1st gen) suspension which is also a rwd car in coupe and hatch format. isuzu also put out a turbo model impulse (2nd gen). the 2nd gen impulses were sporting the quad rounds and brow before the styling design became really popular. but the 2nd gens were only either fwd or awd.

my85suprat · Post by **my85suprat** » Thu Feb 19, 2009 1:54 am

If I remember correctly, the lotus elise also has the mr2 motor and tranny.