1999 Lotus Elise Standard 1.8i from UK and Ireland
Summary:
The border line of sports car and super car
Faults:
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. 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, soft top, 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 power steering 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 extension of your nervous system.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 29th June, 2000
25th Jan 2002, 05:56
Ferrari performance!? I think not. A Ferrari has a 0-60 of about four seconds, and is capable of speads of up to 175mph. The Lotus Elise struggles to top 125mph and has a 0-60 time of around 5.6 seconds. Get your facts right next time please..