Internal Reference:
1205-005
Quaife ATB Limited-Slip Differential for Lotus Elise and Exige with 2ZZ engine
The Quaife ATB Limited-Slip Differential is a proven upgrade solution for Lotus Elise, Exige and 2-Eleven with Toyota 2ZZ engine and C64 manual transmission. It replaces the standard open differential and improves power transfer between the two driven rear wheels.
The available torque is automatically preferentially transferred to the wheel with better traction. This reduces unwanted slip and one-sided spinning. Especially when accelerating out of corners and on roads with varying grip, the available engine power can be utilized more effectively.
Automatic Torque Distribution
The Quaife ATB – Automatic Torque Biasing – operates with a helical worm gear design. As soon as a traction difference occurs between the two drive wheels, the differential distributes the torque in a controlled manner in favor of the better-loaded wheel.
Unlike a classic plate limited-slip differential, the Quaife ATB does not require friction plates. The locking effect therefore engages evenly and relatively smoothly.
The result is a harmonious and predictable driving behavior that is suitable for both sportily used road vehicles and track days.
Improved traction and drivability
When accelerating out of tight corners, the standard open differential can direct a large portion of the drive torque to the unloaded inside wheel. If this wheel starts to spin, the available engine power can no longer be fully transferred to the road.
The Quaife ATB reduces this effect and supports a more effective power transfer. This improves traction while the vehicle accelerates more controlled and precisely under load.
Depending on the driving situation, the more even torque distribution can also support stability during load changes and on surfaces with varying grip.
Smooth and quiet operation
Due to its design without friction plates, the Quaife ATB operates particularly smoothly compared to many motorsport-oriented plate limited-slip differentials.
The constructive advantages include:
Gently engaging locking effect
Low additional noise generation
No wearing friction plates
Low maintenance effort
High durability
Use of the oil quality specified for the transmission is possible
This makes the differential particularly suitable for vehicles that are used both on the road and on track days.
Advantages
Improved traction during acceleration
Automatic torque distribution to the wheel with more grip
Reduced slip at the unloaded drive wheel
More effective use of available engine power
More controlled driving behavior under load
Smooth and progressive locking effect
Torsen-like worm gear principle
No friction plates or clutch packs
Low noise development
Low maintenance effort
High wear resistance and lifespan
Suitable for sporty road use and track days
Compatible with vehicle-side control systems
Fits for
Lotus Elise R with 2ZZ engine and C64 transmission
Lotus Elise SC with 2ZZ engine and C64 transmission
Lotus Exige Mk2 with 2ZZ engine and C64 transmission
Lotus Exige S Mk2 with 2ZZ engine and C64 transmission
Lotus 2-Eleven with 2ZZ engine and C64 transmission
Model years 2004 to 2011
Compatibility must be checked before ordering based on vehicle model, year of manufacture, engine code, and transmission version.
Not suitable for
Lotus models with Toyota 1ZZ engine
Vehicles with C60 transmission
Elise variants with 136 hp
Other engine or transmission versions without prior technical inspection
Scope of delivery
1 × Quaife ATB limited-slip differential for the Toyota C64 transmission
Differential bearings, seals, transmission oil, and other assembly parts are not included in the delivery unless they are explicitly listed as part of the chosen variant.
Construction-related note
The Quaife ATB requires a certain resistance at both drive wheels to distribute torque between the wheels. If a wheel is completely unloaded or is freely in the air, the locking effect may be limited due to design.
For applications with frequently completely unloaded drive wheels or uncompromising track use, a plate locking differential may therefore be the more suitable solution depending on the vehicle setup.
Important assembly note
For installation, the transmission must be removed, opened, and then properly readjusted. The assembly may only be carried out by a qualified transmission or motorsport specialist.
We recommend renewing the differential bearings as part of the installation. Additionally, bearing preload, tooth flank play, seals, and the general condition of the transmission must be checked.
After assembly, the transmission must be filled with oil suitable for the transmission type. The specified filling quantities and maintenance intervals must be observed.