1998 Lotus Elise review from UK and Ireland
"Great fun but one for the committed (or those that should be!)"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Radiator hose came off at high speed (no damage caused luckily).
Interior trim panels become loose for no reason and mark easily.
Soft-top is a pain to remove/replace.
Can feel a bit too much like a kit-car.
General comments?
Not particularly sensible, practical or compromising, but the upside is manic acceleration, braking and handling!
Definitely a car for a sunny Sunday afternoon. It's possible to commute in one but it can get frustrating being stuck in traffic all the time - it's not much fun to drive at very low speeds, you can't be lazy with it.
The BMW M3 I had felt like a bus in comparison, mind.
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| 1997 - Elise S1 1.8i 1.8 16v petrol Massive fun for a lower TCO than a nearly new Mondeo |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Tuned K Series Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 3/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 3500 miles |
| Most recent distance | 8200 miles |
| Previous car | BMW M3 |
| Date of Entry | 22nd August, 2000 |