Even back when the TM posse visited Lotus and classic Team Lotus, there was huge uncertainty over the future, and the announcement of five (I think) super new models created huge anticipation, just like the TVR announcement which followed. Of course nothing came of any of that. Lotus has always managed to survive, but has never really become a snob badge.
I remember back in the day when Lotus really dominated F1, and the Elan and Europa were cars to covet, but for me, unaffordable. Those were the golden days, and that atmosphere still washes around Classic Team Lotus who are in the same buildings. Worth a visit, but a long drive.
I really did want a Lotus, but could not jump the final gate into an Elan, although i stood at that gate a long time. I took a deposit to buy a new Elise, which on paper should have blown me away, but sadly failed on overall driving feel and gearchange. That's how close I came. I also coveted the modern Europa, looked at a couple but stayed behind the gate.
Lotus, like TVR were taken over by people who have no regard for history and let the whole thing wither away. It's very sad when Caterham stay small and succeed.
