The Elise was one of the last cars to be fitted with ABS which was first made available on the 111R then added across the range from mid-2006. Traction control also became an option at this point. Newer cars come with twin airbags, but previously these weren’t available.

Getting in and out of the Elise is a challenge in itself. Once you’ve mastered the art it’s slightly less ungainly, but it’s never an easy exercise. The height and width of the sills, combined with a low roofline make it a real squeeze and cabin space is tight with no storage apart from a small area behind the seats. Luggage room is severely limited too with just 112 litres – only enough room for a few shopping bags.