Description
LOTUS ELISE S1 MMC 1997
One of the early examples: Number 333
Original service book
Silver/ Blue interior
52, 000 miles
Prepared by a specialist workshop
The Lotus Elise quite literally saved the British firm at the end of the 1990s, following its sale to an Italian group and the end of production of the Elan M100.
To reinvigorate the company and generate the cash flow needed for its survival, a small team was assembled to work on a 'step-in car' project: a minimalist doorless roadster. This was the beginning of the 'M111' project, which would become the Lotus Elise.
Unveiled at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show, the car was a genuine revolution: a rigid bonded aluminium extrusion chassis that was easy to build with minimal tooling, a retro-styled fibreglass-reinforced polyester body, and a 1800cc all-aluminium 'Rover K' engine producing 120 bhp. The aim was to make the car as light as possible.
That is precisely why the first series received aluminium brake discs with MMC (Metal Matrix Composite) pads, and an aluminium bonnet.
Result: 730 kg on the scales, whereas Renault's minimalist Spyder weighed 200 kg more. Nobody would do better than Lotus, which revived the marque and established the Elise as the benchmark for sporty, stripped-back roadsters. All at an affordable price.
Further generations of the model followed, but it is the first series, commonly known as the MMC, that will remain in the annals for enthusiasts.
This car was imported from England in 2021. We have its stamped original service book along with all the maintenance invoices from the previous owner. The car was serviced at the London Lotus Center and previously at an approved Lotus dealership garage.
Purchased by a specialist Lotus workshop in the south of France, the car was partly restored with approximately €18, 000 spent.
Highlights include:
- Conversion to left-hand drive, including new pedal box and gearbox linkage (the Elise was designed to be easy to build, and left-hand drive conversion was therefore something the manufacturer had planned from the outset)
- Chassis and suspension restoration
- Engine rebuild
- Full new leather interior trim and a restored hood
The timing belt is new, as are the tyres and brakes.
Upgrades include an ProAlloy aluminium radiator, a new fan, a stainless steel sports exhaust, a new catalytic converter and a bespoke diffuser.
The car is also maintained by this workshop, which is a reference in the field.
To date, the car presents beautifully.
The bodywork is in good condition with some minor wear consistent with its age. The wheels are in excellent condition.
The upholstery is flawless, as is the dashboard.
In terms of mechanicals, servicing has been carried out regularly and on schedule.
For enthusiasts seeking thrills who want a road-legal go-kart to enjoy on the road as much as on track, the Lotus Elise appears to be the benchmark in its class.
Moreover, the very first versions are very often the most sought after, and this year they enter the 'collectable' category. This car is the 333rd produced.
A bargain!
Viewing by appointment
Original service book
Invoices
MOT under 6 months old, with no advisories
