Toyota enlisted Lotus for the technical development of the Supra. During this period, Toyota became a major shareholder in Lotus, but later sold its shares when General Motors acquired Lotus.

Part of the agreement between Lotus and Toyota was the use of many Toyota mechanical components in the Lotus cars. The original Excel (the Éclat Excel) used the W58 manual transmission, driveshafts, rear differential, 14x7-inch alloy wheels, and door handles from the A60 Supra. The engine was the familiar all-aluminum DOHC 2,2-liter Lotus 912 inline four-cylinder, also used in the Lotus Esprit S3 and producing 160 hp (119 kW; 162 PS).

The body was made of vacuum-injected resin and consisted of a top and bottom half that were joined together, as evidenced by a black trim strip around the body. The body was mounted on a galvanized steel chassis. This production process gave the car good structural rigidity.

Lotus Éclat Excel
The Excel is also known for its handling and steering, thanks to its 50:50 weight distribution. A reported 413 units were registered in the UK as of 2024.

In October 1985, for the 1986 model year, the SE trim became available, paired with the more powerful HC (High Compression) engine. The engine's power increased to 180 hp (134 kW; 182 PS), and red camshaft covers further distinguished it from the standard engine. Other changes included a higher compression ratio of 10,9:1, intake camshafts with increased valve lift, and larger intake and exhaust valves. Torque was marginally increased to 224 Nm (170 lb-ft), and the engine was fed by twin 45 mm Dellorto carburetors with dual throttle bodies. The dashboard and controls were modified on all Excel models, as were an upgraded air conditioning system (an extra-cost option) and a standard tilt-adjustable steering column. The standard Excel remained available alongside the more expensive SE.

The car presented here is a Lotus delivered in Germany. It had three owners there, the last being the German Ambassador to Thailand. The last Dutch owner was a Lotus and race car collector. The car has always been meticulously maintained there, resulting in a very smooth-running Lotus Excel. So if you're looking for a perfectly running Excel, this is the one to see.