1998 Lotus Elise Standard 1.8 petrol from UK and Ireland
Summary:
A great looking car with just enough performance to match it's style
Faults:
Nearside headlamp bracket broke during jet washing.
Excessive steering rack wear at 15,000 miles.
Failed MOT test just 5 months after buying it from a Lotus dealer.
Problems included the 2 points already listed, plus catalytic converter and brake imbalance problems.
General Comments:
I really enjoy owning, driving and posing in the Elise, but felt badly let down by my local Lotus dealer whenever faults arose, and liability issues were discussed.
Hefty repair and service bills should be expected after each visit to the workshop.
The Lotus warranty should be taken with a large pinch of salt.
When everything is working as it should, the Elise is quick away from the mark, handles superbly on corners and turns heads, just as they said it would.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 29th August, 2002