Highlights

Incredible performance
Last owner for 17 years
Extensive service history

The Appeal

The Lotus Elise was conceived and designed to be a true driver’s car. Built to strip back the joy of driving to the pure essentials by virtue of its simplicity and focus on what really matters. Core to this is the cars weight, and by keeping it super light, not only does the power go so much further, but you also put less stress on the brakes, tyres and other components, not to mention better fuel economy.

Increasingly rare and highly sought after simply because there aren’t that many around anymore, and of those that are, a large proportion of them will have been thrashed to pieces, which is what makes this particular one such a gem. Having been well cared for during its life, with regular maintenance and timely replacement of those parts which can go on to cause all manner of headaches (the head gasket and timing belts particularly), this is a truly great find and is likely to generate significant interest to the driver among drivers.

The History and Paperwork

Supplied new in 1998
Only one owner since 2006
Always garaged in his ownership, enjoying light summer usage and averaging 1500 miles per year
V5c present
Genuine documented mileage
Owner’s manual and service book all presented in original wallet
Always well maintained by current owner and serviced every year that it has exceeded 500 miles, otherwise it would be serviced the following year
Excellent service history with large file of invoices and receipts
MOT valid until November 2023
2 sets of keys

The Interior

Original grey cloth seats are in good condition with no rips or tears
The cabin is very basic and geared for the driver but importantly everything works as it should
There are a few scuffs on the door cards and some minor scratches here and there but overall it presents well and a thorough clean would bring it up nicely
Dashboard and trim are free from any cracks or damage
Leather steering wheel
Factory fitted Cobra immobiliser
All gauges and electrics work
CD / Radio and two speaker system

The Exterior

Original Deep Purple paintwork is in good condition throughout and presents very well
On close inspection one notices a few stone chips to the nose and a few minor chips and scratches here and there as illustrated in the photographs
There is some crazing to the offside front bumper
Hood appears in good condition and fits nice and snugly
Original Lotus alloy wheels are in good condition
Rear nearside wheel has some minor corrosion to one of the caps
New Yokohama tyres fitted all round
Lights all work and are free from any cracks or damage

The Mechanics

1,796cc petrol engine
5-speed manual gearbox
Great service history
Cambelt last replaced in 2020
Cylinder head gasket skimmed and refitted in 2020
New radiator fitted in 2012
Rear brake pads and discs changed 8000 miles ago
Front brake pads and discs replaced 10,000 miles ago
Stainless steel sports exhaust fitted
Aftermarket air filter fitted
All electrics reported to function correctly
The vendor advises that the car is in excellent mechanical shape, starting and driving very well with no major issues to report or advise

The Summary

A well looked after and regularly maintained example that presents well. Increasingly rare and serious fun, this is not going to appeal to someone looking for an everyday practical car, but more to someone seeking a thrilling driving experience with incredible performance and handling.

Notice to bidders

This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.*

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