Approximately 120-160 bhp (naturally aspirated variants), higher for supercharged 'Exige' variants often discussed alongside Elise
Torque Range:
Approximately 120-140 lb-ft (naturally aspirated variants)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Overhaul
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed steps for piston, ring, bearing, valve, and cylinder head work
Timing Belt Service
Belt Replacement:
Specific procedures, tensioning, and torque specifications
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle
Optional
Type:
Some later or special editions might have different options, but manual is standard for this era Elise.
Features
Clutch System:
Hydraulic actuation, detailed service procedures
Fluid Specifications
Gearbox Oil:
Typically GL-4 or GL-5 synthetic gear oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual, e.g., 75W-90)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 3785 mm (149 in)
Width:
Approx. 1670 mm (65.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1125 mm (44.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 750-800 kg (1650-1760 lbs), highly dependent on specification and options
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 in)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Results:
Minimal official crash testing due to low volume and specialized nature, but designed with safety cell principles.
Active Features
Braking System:
AP Racing or Brembo calipers, ventilated discs
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on most models from this era.
Roll Over Protection:
Integral roll hoop within the chassis structure
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic radio/CD player typical for the era, often aftermarket upgrades are common.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional or standard depending on market and year.
Connectivity
ECU Interface:
OBD-II diagnostics port for accessing engine control unit data; manual covers diagnostic procedures.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 6,000-9,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact intervals).
Timing Belt:
Critical service, often recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles or 4-5 years, depending on engine variant and usage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 meeting API SN or ACEA A3/B4 specifications (confirm with manual).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with deionized water. Specific type (e.g., OAT) to be confirmed.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (high boiling point, glycol-based) recommended for performance braking systems.
Known Issues
Head Gasket:
A known concern for Rover K-Series engines, especially earlier variants or if not properly maintained; manual will detail checks and replacement procedures.
Clutch Release Bearing:
Can sometimes wear out, requiring clutch assembly replacement. Manual covers clutch servicing.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many low-volume sports cars, intermittent electrical issues can occur. Detailed wiring diagrams are crucial.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Founder:
Colin Chapman
Philosophy:
Lightweight, simplicity, performance through agility ('The Great Engineer')
Model Evolution
Generation:
Series 2 (S2) Elise introduced in 2001, building on the Series 1.
Key Changes S2:
Improved safety (airbags, strengthened chassis), refined aerodynamics, introduction of Rover K-Series engines with VVC (Variable Valve Control) on some models.
Production
Original Manufacturer:
Lotus Cars, Hethel, UK
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Driving Experience:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its pure driving experience, handling, and driver feedback.
Le choix d'une sélection entraîne l'actualisation de la page entière.