Lotus Elise (2000 - 2022) Elise 111R Super Touring 2d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I don't know, and don't especially care - it's more about how driving it makes me feel! It seems to be generally well received, and I find that I'm let out of junctions a lot more that when I'm in the bland Hyundai!

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

Those that have been in it love it (once they've got the hang of getting in/out. Again generally well received, and without the 'baggage' some other manufacturers of sports cars carry.

Would you buy this car again and why?

The only reason I would need to is if someone writes this one off, as I have no plans to sell. But if I had to then yes, in a flash!

What are you likely to buy next?

I'd love an Evora, but they are outside my budget, and being Lotus unlikely to depreciate much. Maybe an Elise SC, but to be honest I can't think of anything else which would come close.

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?

October 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

I think so. The car is an ex-Lotus management car, and has every option ticked - touring + super touring pack (which gives the later airbag dash), sports pack (gorgeous forged alloys), air con, LSD and switchable traction control, but the car was priced comparably to base spec cars.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

The Elise has to be the best affordable 'drivers' car. I've always liked Lotus since a factory tour as a 7 year old, so wanted to own and drive one while I was still flexible enough to get in and out!

What was the dealer like?

Very friendly chap - not a Lotus nut, but looked after it well.

What's it like to drive?

Like nothing else I've driven, including more powerful cars. The go-cart handing cliché is for once spot on. It feels naughty to be driving such a focussed car on the road, even pottering to the shops. You have to experience the level of feedback to understand it and why it's so special.

What's it like to park?

Not at all bad - it's a short car, but the (unassisted) steering can be heavy when parallel parking.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Oil cooler pipes fixings replaced as a FoC recall, other than that just routine maintenance, which is remarkably cheap at a decent independent specialist.

What's most practical about your car?

The ride is remarkably plush for a sports car (in fact for any car - better than my Hyundai hatch!). The luggage space is not as bad as you might think - enough for a week long self catering holiday for two. But all said, you don't buy an Elise for practicality, but for fun.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The air con is great, either for the occasional day that's too hot to bake in the sun, or for damp days when it's great for de-misting the screen. Traction control is a nice 'comfort blanket' for foul weather. But the performance, the 'on cam' power boost, and the level of feedback through the steering are the main appeal.