Excel-SE-or!
Although it was in production for a decade, the Lotus Excel remains one of their least-known vehicles, probably because it was eclipsed during its lifetime by the lovely Esprit. Despite lacking in name-recognition, this 1988 Lotus Excel SE more than makes up for it with originality, retaining its original paint and interior, which both look to be in outstanding condition. Powered by a DOHC Lotus 912 four cylinder, this Excel put out 180hp and 165 lb-ft of torque when it was new. With a perfect 50:50 weight distribution, it should easily live up to the Lotus name when it comes to handling too. This example has covered just 58,892 miles and just recently enjoyed a service, meaning it’s ready to hit the open road and put a smile on the face of its next owner.
Itsy bitsy spider
Compared to any modern car, this 1991 Alfa Romeo Spider would appear positively minute, which makes it perfect for enjoying the narrower backroads that SUVs wouldn’t dare enter. This Series 4 marked the end of the road for the original Alfa Spider, and while some might prefer the Series 1 and 2 models, we love the 90s influence in this car’s design, especially at the rear. This Rosso Alfa example still boasts its original paint and interior, and has covered just 49,586 miles from new. With a recent service and a rebuilt clutch and differential, this Spider is simply begging for a sunny day and some empty country roads.
Textbook land yacht
If any car could be labelled a land yacht, it’s this stunning light blue 1971 Mercedes 280 SE 3.5, which is the absolute embodiment of the term. Twice the price of even a Cadillac Deville Coupe and 35% more than the equivalent Merc sedan when it launched, this may not have been a cost effective motorcar, but there’s no denying its considerable appeal. Considering the stately appearance, it may come as a surprise that this Cabriolet can still hit 60 mph in less than 10 seconds, although if you were behind the wheel of such a gorgeous vehicle, we wouldn’t blame you if you decided to take it slow. If there’s a better vehicle to waft around the Mediterranean coastline in this summer, we haven’t seen it.
A helping of heritage
With all the recent Porsche Heritage announcements recently, we couldn’t resist including this 2021 Porsche 911 Targa Heritage Design Edition. One of just 992 units, the Heritage Design Edition carried a hefty premium over a standard Targa, but when the paint scheme looks this good, especially in this hue of Bordeau Red, we can understand why one would be willing to pay a bit extra. This example is practically unused with just 373 miles on the odometer, so if you missed an order slot last year, then now’s your chance.
Winged wonder
While that dramatic rear wing may not produce any actual downforce, we certainly wouldn’t turn our noses up at this spectacular 1988 Lamborghini Countach 5000QV. One of only 610 “Downdraft” examples capable of 183 mph, this Countach is even rarer still as only 17 cars were finished in this shade of Blu Acapulco. With a tan leather interior that perfectly compliments that dark blue exterior, this is one of the best looking Countachs we’ve seen in a long time, and with just 7,935 miles behind it, this seems to be a fantastic representative of the breed.
