3-Eleven 430 retakes crown as Lotus' fastest street-legal car

The new 3-Eleven can launch to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and top out at 180 mph.

Lotus has unveiled the 3-Eleven 430, updating the extreme open-cockpit racer with a more powerful engine and improved aerodynamics.

Like the Exige Cup 430, the new 3-Eleven is powered by a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 430 horsepower and 425 pound-feet of torque. The extra oomph launches the car to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds (down from 3.3 seconds) and eventually hits 180 mph (up from 174 mph).

Retaking the title of Lotus' fastest street-legal car, the 3-Eleven is the fastest road car to lap the company's Hethel track.

With more downforce at maximum speed and Michelin Cup 2 tires, the 3-Eleven boasts lateral acceleration of up to 1.5 g. New brakes are said to improve bite while reducing distortion and vibration, further improving track performance.

The 3-Eleven 430 is available as a limited production model with just 20 units planned.