Lotus Elise (00 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 20 November 2009
The original Elise saw Lotus return to sports cars with a bang. The new car improves on that further but retains the same key ingredients - a light weight body, high-revving engines and superb handling. This is an old-school approach to sports cars. There are few luxuries (there's no power steering for instance) and it's not a comfortable car to travel long distances in, but for sheer enjoyment and involvement few cars come close. It lacks the practicality and usability to be everyday transport for most, but as an indulgence it's ideal. Affordable prices and good economy mean it needn't be expensive to run either.
4 out of 5

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2 out of 5

Buying new

Lotus doesn't have a huge dealer network but there's one in every major part of the country. All models are hand built to your specification at the firms factory in Norfolk - where you can even arrange to see yours being assembled. As a result discounts aren't likely, but there's enough scope to personalise your car. It's very rare that two Elise models are ever the same.

4 out of 5

Buying used

This version has been around for a while now and the Elise is the most popular Lotus model. Therefore tracking one down shouldn't be too difficult and early examples are seriously affordable - making it a realistic choice as a 'weekend' car. Later Toyota-engined models are the better ones to go for and a full service history is absolutely essential. Avoid any that show evidence of track use too. Interiors can look a bit tatty if previous owners have been clumsy getting in and out and they may well have thrashed the car on a track, but it is a tough little number.

  • Interior Lotus Elise (00 on)

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See 6 used Lotus Elises for sale, starting at £15,000

3 out of 5

Selling

Buyers always like to see a full Lotus service history and signs of light use, but the Elise is popular enough to ensure it is not a problem to re-sell. The Supercharged version is especially sought after - but the entry-level model is quick enough for most.