Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car / Track-Focused Performance Vehicle
Key Competitors:
Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3 M Coupe/Roadster, Caterham 7, Ariel Atom (depending on exact variant and era)
Vehicle Philosophy:
Performance through light weight, aerodynamic efficiency, and driver engagement
Manual Advantage:
Provides the in-depth technical knowledge required to maintain and repair these specialized vehicles effectively.
Coverage Scope:
All repairs covered A-Z, all models
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific number not provided, described as 'full and complete')
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Operating Systems:
All Operating Systems (PC & MAC Compatible: Windows 95, 98, 2000, Me, Xp, Vista, Windows 7 etc.)
Powertrain:
Engine, Clutch, Transmissions, Cooling Systems, Fuel System, Exhaust System
Electrical:
Ignition System, Electrical Components, Wiring Diagrams
Chassis:
Brakes & Brake Assembly, Wheels & Tires, Steering System, Suspension System, Frame & Bodywork
General Maintenance:
Maintenance & Servicing
Diagnostics:
Fault Finding Troubleshooting
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems and components
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspection points
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic tests
Component Overhaul:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper servicing
Wiring Analysis:
Reading and interpreting electrical wiring diagrams, component tracing
Depth Of Information:
Professional Quality Information, Covers Major Repair Topics in Great Detail
Visual Aids:
Includes lots of high-quality pictures & diagrams
Completeness:
Full & Complete Manual, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to major repairs
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, Mid-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive
Engine Code Examples:
Rover K-Series (e.g., K20, K22 for Elise S1, S2; various Lotus-tuned variants)
Displacement Examples:
1.8 Liters (1798 cc) - common across many variants
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 118 hp (early Elise S1) to over 217 hp (later supercharged Exige variants)
Torque Range:
Varies significantly with engine tune and supercharging.
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Petrol)
ECU Type:
Lotus-specific ECU tuning, often programmable for performance variations
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (e.g., Rover PG1)
Optional Transmission:
Some later models or special editions might have offered alternative gearboxes, but manual is dominant.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate clutch
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by model and intended use (e.g., closer ratios for track variants)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual Gearbox Oil (Specific grade and capacity detailed in manual, typically GL-4 or GL-5 compliant)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 in)
Length:
Approx. 3700 - 3770 mm (145.7 - 148.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1130 - 1150 mm (44.5 - 45.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 700 - 850 kg (1540 - 1870 lbs), remarkably lightweight
Gvw:
N/A (Typically not specified for lightweight sports cars in this manner)
Crash Test Results:
Designed for occupant protection within a lightweight, high-performance chassis; specific formal ratings may vary by region and era.
Braking System:
AP Racing or Lotus-specific 4-piston calipers, vented discs (front & rear)
ABS:
Optional or standard depending on model year and market
Chassis Structure:
Lightweight extruded aluminum chassis with composite body panels, integrated safety cell
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on later models
Infotainment System:
Basic systems typical for the era, often including radio/CD player; focus is on driving, not luxury tech.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, particularly later Series 2 Elise/Exige.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; focus is on mechanical and electrical systems diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 6,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific engine variant in manual)
Major Service Interval:
Includes timing belt replacement (if applicable to engine variant) and other comprehensive checks, often around 30,000 - 40,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Fully Synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-40, API SN or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant (e.g., Lotus specific or equivalent pink/OAT coolant)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 High Performance or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for precise specification)
K Series Head Gasket:
Potential for head gasket failure due to design elements; manual will cover inspection and replacement procedures.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch can be susceptible to wear with aggressive driving; manual details replacement process.
Aluminuim Chassis Corrosion:
While resistant, inspection for corrosion, especially at suspension mounting points, is important; manual guides on inspection.
Founding Principles:
Colin Chapman's 'Simplify, then add lightness' philosophy
Elise Genesis:
Launched in 1996 to revive Lotus's sports car legacy, focusing on pure driving experience.
Exige Development:
Introduced in 2000 as a coupe variant of the Elise, often with more power and track-oriented features.
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, UK
Production Era Covered:
Series 1 Elise (1996-2001), Series 2 Elise (2001-2011, with manual covering up to 2004), Exige (2000-2001 S1, 2001-2003 S2)
