The 1991 Lotus Carlton: A Supercar in Saloon Clothing
Few cars in history have disrupted the automotive world quite like the 1991 Lotus Carlton.
At a time when performance cars were making headlines for their impressive speeds and aggressive designs, Lotus delivered a sedan capable of challenging the era’s most renowned supercars. You can bid on one of just 950 in an auction powered by Carhuna, running from January 22nd to January 29th.
The Lotus Carlton began life as the Vauxhall Carlton (or Opel Omega A) – an unassuming executive saloon. Initially celebrated for its aerodynamic design and comfortable ride, it seemed far removed from the performance world. However, GM Europe sought to rebrand their sedate image and enlisted the expertise of Lotus Engineering to create a car that would set new benchmarks for speed, handling, and refinement.
The result was extraordinary. Lotus transformed the Carlton into a bona fide supercar in disguise.
The modifications included a 3.6-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 377 bhp and 419 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed ZF manual gearbox from the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, the Carlton could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds and reach a staggering top speed of 176 mph. At the time, it was faster than the Ferrari Testarossa and Porsche 911 Turbo, cementing its place as the world’s fastest four-door sedan.
The Carlton’s performance upgrades were not limited to its powertrain. Lotus overhauled the suspension, refining the existing multi-link setup to improve high-speed stability and cornering dynamics. Wider track dimensions and a limited-slip differential further enhanced grip and handling. Braking power was also upgraded, ensuring the Carlton could handle its newfound speed with ease.
Despite its extraordinary performance, the Lotus Carlton maintained a subtle exterior. A widened body kit, flared wheel arches, cooling vents on the bonnet, and a modest rear spoiler hinted at its capabilities while retaining an air of discretion. This sleeper aesthetic was a stark contrast to rivals like the BMW M5 E34, which adopted a more traditional performance-sedan image.
In its time, the Lotus Carlton faced stiff competition from performance saloons like the BMW M5 E34 and the Mercedes-Benz 500E. However, neither rival could match its sheer speed. The Carlton’s ability to outperform dedicated sports cars also earned it significant notoriety. Media outlets decried it as “too fast for British roads,” while law enforcement criticised its capability to evade pursuit with ease.
The car’s exclusivity – with only 950 examples produced – further elevated its status, making it a sought-after collector’s item today.
This 1991 Lotus Carlton, offered by Sasso Automotive in a Carhuna auction, is an exceptional example. Its mileage, condition and ownership history make it a prime candidate for collectors and enthusiasts. With its breathtaking speed, engineering excellence, and enduring legacy, the Carlton remains a true legend.
To explore the full details of this example and place your bid, visit carhuna.com. Don’t miss the opportunity to own one of the most controversial and celebrated cars of the 1990s.
