2024 Lotus Emira V6 First Edition

The Emira V6 First Edition is the car that closed out Lotus's combustion era in the best possible way: a mid-engined coupe with a supercharged 3.5-litre Toyota-derived V6 making 400 bhp, and, crucially, a proper six-speed manual gearbox. Where many rivals have moved to dual-clutch transmissions only, the Emira keeps a hands-on gear change, which is much of its appeal.

This 2024 example has covered just 1,055 miles, so it is effectively an as-new car that has avoided the first-year depreciation hit. The First Edition designation marks the launch-specification run, which typically bundled desirable equipment such as larger forged wheels and upgraded styling touches. The page lists no further option or ownership details, so a close look at the exact specification is worthwhile.

The Emira's strengths are the usual Lotus ones: a bonded aluminium chassis, finely judged steering and a level of ride and handling balance that few cars at any price can match. In V6 manual form it is the purist's choice in the range.