What Car? says

3 out of 5 stars

For Excellent performance and handling

Against Horribly impractical; no creature comforts

Verdict An awesome car to drive, but the roof is murder

Go for… An early 120bhp model

Avoid… Newer versions, as prices are still high

Lotus Elise Open
  • 1. Head gaskets can blow, so look for warning signs like oil in the coolant and check under the oil filler cap for water or a white residue
  • 2. Insist on a long test drive - the suspension can wear very quickly and you need to know if it has
  • 3. Radiator hoses have a habit of leaking, so check them thoroughly and keep an eye on the temperature gauge
  • 4. The clip-on roof can leak, so check it thoroughly
  • 5. Forget any thoughts of practicality - there's almost no room for luggage at all
advertisement


Read the full used car review
with expert trade views

Reader test team says:

Lotus Elise Open 1.8 2dr

Having owned an S2 for over 2 years,I have…

Justin Sheldon

4 out of 5 stars

Lotus Elise Open 1.8 111S 2dr

I owned the Lotus Elise Series 2 111s and…

Jamie Jones

5 out of 5 stars
Post a reader review for your car View all reader reviews

Buying your used car

Elise used rivals

More on this car

Today's most popular used cars

Model news