Resurrecting a Legend: The Unstoppable Journey of the Ronin RS211 Lotus
The Ronin RS211 Lotus is not just a car; it's a testament to perseverance, engineering brilliance, and an undying passion for speed. Born from the ashes of a catastrophic crash, the Ronin RS211's journey from a stock Lotus Elise to becoming one of the most iconic custom cars in the automotive world is nothing short of cinematic.
Frank Profera, the mastermind behind this remarkable transformation, first captured the attention of car enthusiasts and media alike when his Lotus Elise won Speedhunters' 'Street Car of the Year' in 2012. However, it was the car's radical evolution into the Ronin RS211 that truly set the automotive world ablaze. A turbocharged powerhouse, the RS211 made its rounds on prestigious platforms such as Jay Leno's Garage, earning accolades and awe.
The story took a heart-wrenching turn in 2017 when the Ronin RS211 was involved in a harrowing crash. Despite the setback, fate had other plans for this unique Lotus. Recently spotted for sale, the Ronin RS211 has been meticulously rebuilt and modified, emerging more breathtaking than ever. Now featuring a striking white exterior and a revamped front end, this phoenix has truly risen from the ashes.
The Ronin RS211 is a story of reinvention. Initially inspired by the Lotus 2-Eleven, Frank Profera and his collaborator, Mike Stafford waved their magic wands, transforming the track day special into a beastly creation that transcends recognition as a Lotus. Its carbon fiber wide body, aggressive stance, and open cockpit design invite comparisons to the legendary Can-Am cars of yesteryears - yet it stands in a class of its own.
Underneath its sculpted exterior lies an engineering marvel. The RS211 ditched its compound charged engine setup for a formidable turbo-only configuration, boosting its power to an astounding 680 horsepower to the rear wheels. This monster on wheels doesn't just promise exhilarating speed; its stage injection system ensures high-octane performance, allowing for unforeseen adventures on the open road.
Performance aside, the Ronin RS211 is equipped with Nitron 46mm race shocks, Eibach springs, and custom A-arms, making it as adept at cornering as it is at high-speed thrills. The AP Racing calipers and rotors ensure that all this power can be reined in, providing a balance between ferocity and control.
Yet, for all its performance capabilities, the true essence of the Ronin RS211 lies in its role as a labor of love. Frank Profera's commitment to building his dream car from the ground up - despite the hurdles - is a powerful narrative of creativity, dedication, and resilience. The Ronin RS211 is not merely a vehicle; it's a canvas that reflects the dreams and passions of its creators.
As the Ronin RS211 Lotus continues to turn heads and stir souls, it stands as a reminder of the beauty of bespoke engineering and the indefatigable spirit of those who dare to dream. This car is more than a mode of transport; it's a journey, a story, and ultimately, a legend reborn.
In the world of custom cars, there are projects, and then there are legends. The Ronin RS211 Lotus firmly belongs to the latter, a symbol of automotive artistry and the limitless potentials of human imagination and willpower. It’s a story that continues to inspire, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, greatness can emerge, stronger and more beautiful than ever.