Lotus Elise 111S 2d (2004/54) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Fairly high priced (even good 2nd handers) for a small car, but what a car. From a performance point of view, it's unsurpassed for value, comfort and usability.
Costs
High insurance premiums are main outlay (group 20), 40+ MPG which is good, Servicing costs reasonable (£250-350)
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On the road
Driving
Glorious feedback through steering and suspension. Like an oversized go-kart. Seated very low down, you feel cocooned in traffic. Not as intimidating as you might think though - one blip of the throttle and they are in your rear view mirror.
Performance
Outstanding. Given the right road it can embarrass exotica costing 5 times as much. Feedback encourages you to push car to your limits (way before the car's limit I should add).
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Living with it
Reliability
No problems so far
Image
Does get shown respect by other road users, mainly as they want to have a good look. Is appreciated as a basic British sports car (doesn't encourage the 'hate' or jealousy factor that many high performance car drivers encounter - speaking from experience)
Comfort
Getting in and out can be difficult, though once inside seats are very supportive, excellent driving position, and functional controls just an outstretched finger away
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Security and Service
Security
Mine has upgraded CAT 1 alarm and immobiliser + tracker, Hardtop std on 2004 111s which increases security further
Service
Always on hand and helpful - Gordon Lamb Sports - Sheffield and Chesterfield
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
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