The 2023 Lotus Emira enters the performance car market with style and presence. However, a striking shape and illustrious badge aren’t enough to establish the new as on-paper competition for the likes of the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette or Porsche 718 Cayman. Check out a few ways the new Lotus model can’t compete with some of its new rivals, like its price tag. 

How much is a 2023 Lotus Emira?

The 2023 Lotus Emira starts at around $77,100. As a result, the stunning British performance car is pricier than a comparable 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and a Porsche 718 Cayman. 

The Cayman’s $64,850 starting point and the Corvette Stingray’s $65,895 ask are over $10,000 less than the Emira. However, even with lower starting prices, the German and American coupes both earn a perfect 10 out of 10 from Car and Driver. Moreover, the Lotus’ attention-grabbing and historic badge isn’t enough to match its rivals’ scores; evaluators gave the stunning Lotus model an 8.0 out of 10. 

How much horsepower does the 2023 Lotus Emira have?

The 2023 Lotus Emira produces 400 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque from its Toyota-sourced supercharged 3.5L V6 engine. However, the six-cylinder mill isn’t the only engine option; Lotus offers the model with a 360-horsepower Mercedes-AMG turbocharged four-cylinder mill.

While 400 horsepower might be sufficient for the Emira’s claimed curb weight of just over 3,000 lbs, it’s a bit underpowered compared to a comparable Chevrolet Corvette Stingray’s 495 ponies. Still, the Emira’s near-telepathic handling and striking aesthetic make up for any lack of power.    

How fast is a Lotus Emira?

Lotus says the new manual-equipped Emira will hit 60 mph in around 4.3 seconds, and the automatic will complete the same run in 4.2. That’s quick until you compare it to many performance cars, but not quite as fast as comparably priced models. 

For instance, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will hit 60 mph in around 2.8 seconds on its way to an 11.4-second quarter mile. That’s right; the Stingray is faster, more powerful, and cheaper than the Lotus. It’s not just the Plastic Fantastic, either; the Porsche 718 Cayman will sprint to 60 mph in 3.3 seconds, per Car and Driver. 

As a result, the 2023 Lotus Emira isn’t up to the task of outsprinting a cheaper rival like the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray or Porsche 718 Cayman. Of course, past Lotus models were never really about silly point-scoring. No, cars like the Lotus Elise focused on founder Colin Chapman’s adage and recipe for sports car greatness: “Simplify and add lightness.” 

Is the 2023 Lotus Emira worth it?

While the 2023 Lotus Emira might be more expensive, less powerful, and less thrust-happy than its competitors, it’s a worthwhile evolution in Lotus’ history. Moreover, the Emira’s provocative lines more than make up for its few shortcomings. 

What do you think of the new Lotus model? Share your thoughts in the comments below!