Lotus Elise (1996-)

Want to know everything there is to know about this car?

  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    If you're looking for a true sportscar, then nothng comes close for the money. 0-60 in 5 seconds for under £20k! They also hold their value very well.

    Costs

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Dealer service is pricey, but most Elise owners prefer using non-approved centres. They are Lotus enthusiasts and do a damn better job at half the price, just no stamp! Engine parts are cheap as most are Rover.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Simply the best. The ultimate car for the driving purist. The poise and throttle repsonse will make you smile every time.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Incredible chasis gives an amazing power to weight ratio. Quick enough to upset owners of a lot more expensive sportscars.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    3 out of 5 3.0

    I've had my fair share of K-Series related problems. Traditionally coolant related. Keep your eye on your fluid levels. General build quality is good.

    Image

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Always turns heads and through London even video cameras. Expect people to want to ask you about it.

    Comfort

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Hard bucket seats and lots of engine noise means ear plugs for any motorway journey. You don't care and this becomes a 5 when you find a quiet B-road with the roof down.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Cat 1 immobiliser and alarm gives you some confidence, but soft-top easy to enter. No airbags, no ABS and no servo brakes. Lotus would have taken the seat belts out if allowed.

    Service

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Expensive. Use specialist garages, they know more, care more and cost far less. Lotus are always great if ordering part for DIY and have a very fast delivery service.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Not so great K-Series. I've had several coolant problems from loose pipes to spit rads and head gasket failure. This engine was never designed to be in the back and gets very hot; routine mantainance is essential.

    Other

    Can squeak rattle and bang, but this is normal I've been told. Still a 1000 times better than the new VX I test drove before my purchase (sorry guys!) Ultimately it's a Lotus, regardless of its problems you'll want to drive it all the time...

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes