2002 Lotus Elise Type 25 review from UK and Ireland

Air conditioning didn't work when delivered, due to loose wire which was eventually sorted without too much fuss some weeks later by the dealer.

This is my second Elise and its step on from the Series 1 Elise I owned for a year and a half before buying the Series 2 model. A Series 1 is a more raw experience, whereas the Series 2 is a better everyday super car.

I've gone for a limited edition heritage model (Type 25 - 50 made) which is effectively a Sports Tourer model with hardtop and viper stripes from the 1960s. Heritage models tend to be better buys, due to the additional equipment at discounted prices and the limited construction runs.

The hard top and soft tops on the post Feb 2002 Series 2 Elise is far more water tight and more hassle free when taking it off or putting them on.

Once you've driven the car there is no turning back. The Bilstein suspension was made especially for the Series 2 Elise, and it shows. Build quiality feel better and the car feels like a better planted car in terms of handling. Space wise it's tight and not much room for luggage, but then it isn't supposed to be a touring car.

This car is made for the track, don't avoid 2nd hand buys just because they have. Look for an enthusiastic owner on the Lotus BBS and if it's been regularly serviced and maintained then it's as good as any other.