The really recent past, actually, in the shape of this 2022-registered, 150-mile, Exige Cup 430. The very last Final Edition ...

the Exige LF1’s black and gold theme mimics the famous Gold Leaf colours of some of Lotus’ most iconic Formula 1 years, with added red accents much like the current Lotus F1 Team cars.

You’ve probably seen the disappointing news this week that Lotus is threatened ... outside and red accents for the cabin, though we’re yet to see a colour combo the S3 Exige doesn’t suit.