1999 Lotus Elise Standard review from UK and Ireland
"The border line of sports car and super car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
From new the steering rack was faulty, has been replaced and now OK. Squeak in steering from rubber bung, fixed.
Alarm switch in boot replaced where rubber protection top ripped off. Leaking boot, fixed myself.
Sticking throttle at 2-3K RPM, fixed with new throttle body.
The dealer I bought it from was hopeless, they rarely fixed problems first time and rarely called back. I have since changed to a new dealer who are fantastic. Visit www.eliseweb.com to get users comments on dealers if you buy one of these cars. Now all the 'new car' problems have been fixed, it is very reliable. Always starts, always quick!
General comments?
This car is quick, very quick. It's everything I want in a car, softop, flashy, neat and not too expensive with Ferrari performance. Newer models or upgraded cars have better top end performance. If you don't mind the spartan interior and firm ride this is a great car, it is also something you learn to appreciate the longer you have it.
Nearly everyone looks, some shout. It handles so precisely, the steering is delicate and the pedals are well tuned. You also have good feel of the road and the brakes due to the fact there is no powersteering and no servos on the brakes. Get a copy of Jeremy Clarkson's video, Apocalypse Clarkson to get a better description. This car is an extention of your nervous system.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8i Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 6500 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Escort LX |
| Date of Entry | 29th June, 2000 |

