Used Lotus Elise 2011-2022 review review
The Lotus Elise is one of the best driver's cars out there, but be prepared for its limited versatility, luxury and tech
- Lotus Elise 240 Sport Final Edition 2021 front
- Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition 2021
- Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition 2021
- Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition 2021
- Lotus Elise Sport 240 FE side
- Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition 2021
What's the used Lotus Elise like?
If we told you that a 250bhp Lotus Elise can outrun a 500bhp Dodge Viper, would you believe us? Well, that's the benefit of low weight, people. While the Viper exceeds 1500kg, the Elise (in all guises) undercuts 1000kg, making it an incredibly rapid and agile sports car despite its modest power outputs.
But wait, the engine range gets much humbler. In fact, it kicks off with a 134bhp 1.6-litre unit. That's in the entry-level Club Racer (CR) version, which has a 0-60mph time of 6.0sec, rivalling many hot hatches in a straight line and beating what the previous entry-level Elise can do.
Pros
- Awesome driving experience
- Fantastic performance and surprisingly good fuel economy
- Good residual values
Cons
- Poorly equipped
- Not much car for the money
- Lots of wind and engine noise
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While the CR is quick, the Elise S is really quick. With 217bhp from a supercharged 1.8-litre engine, it has a 0-60mph time of just 4.6sec. You'll get this engine and performance with later Sport 220 cars too. Sport 240 models provide a similarly sharp driving experience, but increase power to 240bhp.
Speaking of later and more powerful cars, there's also the Cup 250 and Cup 260. They produce 245bhp and 250bhp respectively for 0-60mph in 3.9sec and 3.8sec. Both are very track-focused and have lairy rear wings.
Performance figures only tell half the story, though, because this is one of the best driver's car money can buy. It's incredibly engaging, from its precise steering to its satisfying gearshift, and the cherry on top is its rev-happy engine range.
You'll also find that it has exceptional body control while providing an impressively compliant ride. As a result, you can cover an immense amount of ground very quickly without ever feeling ruffled or bounced about. The Elise feels wonderfully alive to drive, yet remains surprisingly approachable.
There's not a lot going on with regards to its interior – it's a very simplistic setup. This car is about excitement rather than comfort, so if you want even basic amenities such as floor mats, a stereo, sound insulation, cruise control, metallic paint or air conditioning, you'll have to actively seek out those features when searching the used car sites.
The steering wheel is fixed but the seat is comfortable and the driving position superb. In terms of build quality, the Elise feels pretty well put together. Yes, the switches are basic but there are examples with various carbon-fibre option packs and style extras out there.
While practicality isn't the Elise's forte, you will find a boot behind its engine. It's big enough for two soft bags, and there’s enough passenger space for two six-footers. However, there's nothing in the way of a glovebox or door bins, and while the shelf below the dashboard can hold a large smartphone, a wallet and a few other odds and ends, it's not lined with non-slip material, so you'll have to drive carefully or suffer the consequences of items flying out.
If you're interested in buying a used Lotus Elise or any of the other cars mentioned here, check out our used car classifieds site here.
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Ownership cost
What used Lotus Elise will I get for my budget?
For an early 1.6-litre Elise, have a budget of around £27,000 at least – you'll get an example in good condition with under 30,000 miles (most models have low mileage) for the money. Increase your budget to around £35,000 for an Elise S of a similar quality, or a 2018 1.6-litre with little mileage.
Around £40,000 will buy you a 2017 Sport 220, while around £45,000 will get you a 2019, 2020 or 2021 one. You'll need around £50,000 to upgrade to a Cup 250. Its Cup 260 sibling is rare and will likely send you north of £60,000.
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Tips & Advice
Our recommendations
Which used Lotus Elise should I buy?
All Elise variants make for compelling sports car buys, and deciding which one to go for mostly depends on your price and performance preferences. At the time of writing, most used examples are Sport 220s. That version is an excellent middle way between the lesser CR and the hardcore Cup cars, so it's our go-to Elise.
Our favourite Lotus Elise: Sport 220
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Tips & Advice
Alternatives
What alternatives should I consider to a used Lotus Elise?
The Elise is more hardcore than many other sports cars, including the Alpine A110 and Porsche 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster. It's lighter and less luxurious than they are, but will probably delight the purist inside you more.
On the other hand, it's heavier and more luxurious than road-legal track toys such as the Caterham Seven and Ariel Atom. The Elise will certainly be more useable everyday than those two, though.
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If you're interested in buying a used Lotus Elise or any of the other cars mentioned here, check out our used car classifieds site here
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How reliable is the Lotus Elise ?
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