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There were a few perplexed faces among the Lotus engineers visiting the 1991 Geneva Salon, the cause of their puzzlement being a Lotus Omega clone which appeared on Opel's stand. In an industry with few secrets, here was a surprise. Situated just in front of the real Lotus Omega was, to all intents and purposes, a second version complete with cotton reel tyres, a deep front bib and boot mounted spoiler. Even the metallic bluey-grey paint finish could be confused under artificial lighting with the Lotus. Surely, this was not a Lotus Omega Mark II?

Well, not quite. Closer inspection revealed it to be the 'Omega Evolution 500' an homologation special developed for the German Touring Car Championship by Opel's advanced development department - headed by Fritz Indra - and Irmscher.

Engine development has seen power grow to 230 bhp at 6000 rpm and torque up to 206 lbs ft at 3500 rpm, while the electronically adjustable rear wing and other aerodynamic tweaks help the car to a claimed top speed of 154 mph after sprinting from zero to 62 mph in 7.5 secs. The electric rear wing was a constant source of amusement to spectators, especially Lotus personnel, as unsuspecting journalists tried to lift the boot lid - complete with electric motors and then attempt to keep it open without decapitating themselves.

The car is fully equipped with Recaro seats, special alloy wheels and even projector-like fog lamps in a deep front spoiler.

It would be cynical to suggest that this was a sop to Irmscher or a case of hurt pride fighting back, but one very senior GME design person said it was the first time he had seen the car.

MCP Motorsport 1999/2000/2001 Last Page Update 10 March 2001