To celebrate its 60th anniversary Lotus has produced a special diamond encrusted Europa. Covered in diamonds valued at £111,100 it is a long way from the stark machines that Lotus started out building.
The interior has been trimmed in leather while the gear lever and controls are finished in matt black metal set with diamonds. In addition the speedo and rev counter have been redesigned, incorporating diamonds highlighted by LED illumination.
On the outside the paint finish is high-gloss black mixed with glass flakes, giving the body a glittering effect. Tinted windows and black and silver wheels continue the monochrome look. As a finishing touch the Lotus badge on the front of the car is also set with diamonds.
Covering the car with diamonds has not affected the performance with Lotus claiming the same 146mph top speed and 4.9 seconds 0-60mph time as the regular Europa SE.
Lotus launched the special Europa, which has been valued at £150,000, at the 60th anniversary celebrations on 14th September. Potential jewel thieves will however be disappointed to hear that the 164 Round Brilliant Diamonds have been replaced with replicas whilst the car is on display.
John Lambert - 15 Sep 2008