White Lotus Evora S (w/ startup)

A white 2014 Lotus Evora S arriving at and leaving Carcadia. The Evora S was powered by a supercharged 3.5-liter Toyota V6 engine producing 345 horsepower and was available as either a 2+2 or a two-seater.

The rear-mid-engined 2+2 layout is not commonly used since it pretty much always requires some form of major compromise. The engine and rear seats fight for space behind the driver, and any attempt to make those seats useful results in an awkward side profile. With that in mind, Lotus actually did a great job with the Evora, offering more practicality (at least relative to the Elise/Exige) with good looks and performance worthy of the Lotus badge. The car was clearly meant to be a Porsche competitor, though it remains a pretty rare sight even after over a decade on the market. Outside of Lotus club gatherings, it seems like the small British company's cars have always been somewhat obscure - not practical enough for everyday street driving but also not expensive and flashy enough to display next to Ferraris or Lamborghinis. In the Evora's price range, the owner had several excellent alternatives from better-established manufacturers to choose from. But perhaps the obscurity is a big part of the Lotus brand's appeal.

Would you choose a Lotus Evora over a Porsche Cayman or 911? Leave a comment on YouTube and let me know!