This is the incredible 1989 Isuzu 4200R. This unique 2+2 rear-engined machine was developed during a time when both Japanese commercial vehicle and diesel engine manufacturing company, Isuzu Motors Ltd., & British automotive company, Lotus Cars Limited were both connected via General Motors (GM). GM acquired a 34% stake in Isuzu in 1972, which represents the percentage of stock owned in the company, and by October of 1986, GM also controlled a 91% stake in Group Lotus. The development of this interesting project was the work of Japanese car designer, Shirō Nakamura, who was working with Isuzu at the time. Julian Thomson, an automotive designer who was currently working with Lotus at the time, worked alongside Nakamura to come up with the design of the 4200R. The 4200R project was quite special, and demonstrated many elements that weren’t often, or ever seen before. Stepping into the 4200R is definitely interesting, as the front driver and passenger use traditional doors, two half-doors which open in an opposing direction allow for entry into the rear seating. The 4200R was primarily built by Lotus, thus resulting in the use of some Lotus-designed mechanics. The 4200R utilizes an active suspension system which was developed by Lotus, and a specially designed, transversely mounted engine developed by both Lotus & Isuzu. The interior was designed to be quite futuristic and offers a high performance audio system, heads-up display, navigation, and even a fax machine! Just in case you need to fax someone while driving your Isuzu 4200R. Although the sleek design of the 4200R was something that many people desired and wanted to own at the time, the company shifted focus in 1993, ceasing the development of all small passenger cars entirely. Since 2002, the company has mainly been focused on the production of commercial vehicles and Diesel engines. The car is pictured here at the 1991 Detroit Motor Show.
How many made? 1 of 1
Engine: Lotus LT5-derived 4.2-liter V8 engine - 350 horsepower
Debut: 1989 Tokyo Motor Show
Top Speed: 177mph (claimed)
0-60: 5.3 seconds (claimed)
Photo Credit: @dtrockstar1
Research: @rarecarsonly