2023 Lotus Emira First Edition

The Lotus Emira 3.5 V6 First Edition with a manual gearbox is the more driver-focused of the two Emira powertrain options — the Toyota-sourced 3.5-litre supercharged V6 paired with a six-speed manual is a combination that leans hard into the analogue character Lotus built its reputation on. With 400 bhp driving the rear wheels and a 4.3-second 0-62 time, it's genuinely quick, but the appeal is as much in the tactility of the drivetrain as the raw numbers. First Edition specification represents the launch-tier build: elevated interior finish, distinctive alloy design, and chassis calibration intended to make a strong first impression for the model.

At 25,500 miles on a 2023 plate, this example has been used properly without approaching high-mileage territory. The Emira's significance as the last combustion-engined Lotus sports car — and the last to be developed in the traditional Hethel mould before the brand's electrification pivot — makes early, well-specced examples increasingly sought after. The manual V6 variant is the one most likely to attract future collector attention given its connection to the traditional mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, driver-first formula.

Priced at £57,995 against an original new price well above that, this represents a meaningful discount on what remains a current-shape car with a full Lotus dealer network behind it.