Lotus Elise (2000 - 2022) 111R Touring 2d (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Don't really care what it says about me. But some might say it shows that I like driving or that I am an enthusiast. End of the day its just a car (albeit a fairly niche car).

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Some are scared of it. Some really like it a lot. Doesn't seem to promote any bad reactions like some other cars. I think people like the fact that it is British (except for the Toyota engine and gearbox).

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes - because it goes well, it's very economical and the CO2 emissions aren't too bad for what it is. It's a good sports car because you don't have to do a silly speed for it to be fun. I once drove a Lamborghini and you had to double the speed limit just to feel like you were making progress. That to me is the opposite of what a sports car should be. It's about fun and the perception of speed, regardless of whether you are going fast or not.

What are you likely to buy next?

A Lamborghini Just kidding !!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£17,000

When did you buy the car?

June 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes - at the time it was a good deal

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I liked it - the way it drives and looks

What was the dealer like?

Private purchase - easy to deal with

What's it like to drive?

Very fast but not stupidly so. Puts all the power down but beware of the high lift cam kicking in mid bend or in the wet. It's good that it doesn't kick in till' high up in the rev range otherwise it would be too quick for its own good (or for me anyway). The steering is very tactile and extremely accurate. It's responses are almost telepathic. Same goes for the throttle response.

What's it like to park?

For a small car I think it is difficult to park. Could just be me though.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Mechanically sound. Heater matrix died and was a little expensive to fix and an ABS sensor needed replacing. Those are the only problems in two and a half years. It can get a bit damp inside when left to stand in a prolonged storm. But it's only the carpets - not the seats or anything electrical. Never caused me a problem - but is a bit annoying. A hard top or new seals round the roof might cure. It's still a much better roof than the old MK1 which was a nightmare.

What's most practical about your car?

Nothing much - only has two seats and a small boot (120 litres)

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The high lift cam is good fun when it cuts in at about 6000 rpm. Boosts power significantly. Its quick enough without it but it's a novelty that never wears off. Steering feedback is unbelievably good. I know that doesn't really answer the question - but I don't really care about gadgets which is why I bought a car that doesn't have any.