Highlights

Only 31,750 miles from new
In current ownership for 23 years
Garaged throughout current ownership
Recent cam belt and water pump replacement
Current MOT until April 2026

The Appeal

The Elise has become the stuff of legend. Super lightweight, sporty and engaging, this was a car that hit the market for six. Nobody could quite hold a candle to Hethel's anarchic little 725kg beauty, and drivers quickly cottoned on that this was really something special. They're one of the most in-demand modern classics anyway, and a lot of that is due to purity of message.

The Elise doesn't try to be a perfect executive car or family car - it's fast and tight-handling, minimalistic and pure, and so characterful that many owners are still proudly holding onto them nearly 30 years later. A good example is always, as a result, catching the attention of potential buyers - and we think this low-mileage example will be no exception.

This particular 1997 example has been in the hands of its current owner for an impressive 23 years, during which time it has been carefully maintained and garaged. With just 31,750 miles on the clock, it's very nicely preserved and will no doubt prove a very rewarding modern classic for the lucky new keeper.

History and Paperwork

First registered in 1997 with 2 former registered keepers
In current ownership since 24th May 2002 (23 years)
RAC inspection was conducted when purchased
Recent HPI check revealed the car was an insurance write-off on 16th August 2000 (Category C and D loss)
The damage was repairable, but the insurer decided to write off
Current owner was unaware of write-off status when purchasing (HPI checks not available at that time)
Car has passed all MOT tests
Current MOT valid until April 2026
Last serviced on 10th April 2025
Car has been garaged throughout current ownership
Only driven with the roof off in fine weather
Owner selling due to their age, making it difficult to get in and out of the car

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The Condition

Highly original throughout with no obvious areas of concern
Gentle chips and the odd scuff to the paintwork, all of which is very mileage-commensurate
Light damage noted to the windscreen on the latest MOT, but this is only a minor advisory
Original alloys
Small repair to the fabric roof cover, but no leaks are reported by the vendor
Bonnet needs to be lifted on and off
Interior is in good overall order, with light age-commensurate wear
We understand it's all working as it should

The Mechanics

1.8-litre Rover K-Series 4-cylinder engine
5-speed manual transmission
Engine bay in good order, and we believe mechanically standard
Cam belt and water pump replaced at 31,350 miles
Engine reportedly runs well
We've no reports of any mechanical issues, which is supported by the car's MOT

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..