Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops working on Lotus Elise and Exige models
Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight sports car, track-focused performance vehicle
Key Competitors 1996-2004:
Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000, BMW Z3/Z4, Alfa Romeo GTV, Mazda RX-7 (FD)
Manual Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, factory-level data for all repairs and maintenance at a single purchase price
Vehicle Appeal:
Renowned for its pure driving experience, lightweight construction, and handling prowess
Documentation Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Usage By Professionals:
Same manual used by professional mechanics and technicians
Approximate Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not specified, but described as 'very detailed')
Type:
Service, Repair, Troubleshooting
Digital Format:
PDF (downloadable)
Cross Platform Compatibility:
Windows & MAC Computers
Device Compatibility:
Computer, tablet, or smartphone
Licensing Model:
Lifetime use, no expiry, no renewal fees, no extra fees
Multi Device Usage:
Usable on unlimited computers
Version Limitations:
Full manual, no trial or limited version
Powertrain:
Engine, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission, clutch
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, brakes (hydraulic and mechanical components), wheels and tires
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, ignition system, lighting system, instrumentation, body electricals, ECU and wiring diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, body sealing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all components
Component Overhaul:
Procedures for engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper rebuilding, etc.
Technical Adjustments:
Alignment procedures, valve adjustments (where applicable), clutch adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic fluid checks to complete engine and chassis rebuilds
Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed photos and diagrams
Exploded Views:
Highly detailed exploded diagrams showing component relationships
Guidance:
Step-by-step instructions for accuracy
Lotus Elise Series 1:
Rover K-Series 1.8L (18K4F) naturally aspirated I4, DOHC, VVC (Variable Valve Control) option available.
Lotus Elise Series 2:
Rover K-Series 1.8L (18K4F) naturally aspirated I4, Rover K-Series 1.8L Supercharged (2ZZ-GE based for some variants) I4, Toyota 1.8L 2ZZ-GE (VVTL-i) naturally aspirated I4 (later models)
Lotus Exige Series 1:
Rover K-Series 1.8L (18K4F) Supercharged I4, DOHC, VVC
Lotus Exige Series 2:
Toyota 1.8L 2ZZ-GE (VVTL-i) Supercharged I4
Elise S1 Power Output:
118 hp (1.8L), 135 hp (1.8L VVC)
Elise S2 Power Output:
120 hp (1.8L Rover), 160 hp (1.8L Rover Supercharged), 190 hp (1.8L Toyota 2ZZ-GE)
Exige S1 Power Output:
177 hp (1.8L Supercharged VVC)
Exige S2 Power Output:
190 hp (1.8L 2ZZ-GE Supercharged)
Injection Type:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) for Rover K-Series, Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for Toyota 2ZZ-GE
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 95 RON / 91 AKI or higher)
Lotus Elise Series 1:
5-speed manual (Lotus PG1)
Lotus Elise Series 2:
5-speed manual (Lotus PG1), 6-speed manual (Toyota E150F series for 2ZZ-GE variants)
Lotus Exige:
5-speed manual (Lotus PG1) for S1, 6-speed manual (Toyota E150F series) for S2
Availability:
No automatic transmission options available for these models and years.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, dry single plate
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for each transmission variant are detailed within the manual.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil for manual gearboxes, specific clutch fluid).
Lotus Elise Series 1 Dimensions:
Length: ~3700 mm, Width: ~1700 mm, Height: ~1130 mm, Wheelbase: ~2300 mm
Lotus Elise Series 2 Dimensions:
Length: ~3790 mm, Width: ~1715 mm, Height: ~1130 mm, Wheelbase: ~2300 mm
Lotus Exige Dimensions:
Similar to Elise but with aerodynamic enhancements, typically slightly longer and wider.
Lotus Elise Unladen Weight:
Approx. 700-760 kg (depending on variant and options)
Lotus Exige Unladen Weight:
Approx. 800-830 kg
Crash Safety Certification:
Minimal safety ratings available due to low-volume sports car classification; designed for occupant protection within its performance envelope.
Braking System:
AP Racing or Brembo 4-piston calipers with ventilated discs (front and rear) on most performance variants. ABS may be optional or standard on later models.
Traction Control:
Optional or standard on certain higher-performance Exige variants, particularly those with superchargers.
Occupant Protection:
Integral safety cell chassis, front crumple zones, driver and passenger airbags (standard on later models/markets), 3-point seatbelts.
Audio System:
Basic radio/cassette or CD player units, often with 2 or 4 speakers. Limited integration compared to modern vehicles.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System available as an option on many variants, and standard on later models or specific markets.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags became standard during the production run, particularly in later Series 1 and Series 2 cars.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal to non-existent by modern standards. No Bluetooth, USB ports, or navigation systems typically featured.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to specific engine variant and manual for exact spec.
Major Service Interval:
Often at 30,000 miles or 3 years, including spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, and coolant replacement. Timing belt replacement for Rover K-Series critical (check manual for interval, often 4-5 years or mileage dependent).
Engine Oil Spec:
Refer to manual: typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting API SN/ACEA A3/B4 standards. Specific viscosity depends on climate and engine.
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type, often pink or orange. Capacity around 5-7 liters. Check manual for correct specification.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid (or DOT 4 LV for ABS systems if fitted). Flush and refill every 2 years.
Gearbox Oil Spec:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity around 2 liters.
Rover K Series Head Gasket:
Infamous for head gasket failures, particularly on earlier models. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures, including the use of the correct MLS (Multi-Layer Steel) gasket and proper torque sequences.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
Hydraulic clutch slave cylinder can be a point of failure, leading to clutch engagement issues.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can degrade over time, affecting handling. Polyurethane replacements are common upgrades.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many specialist cars, some minor electrical faults can occur; the manual's wiring diagrams are crucial for diagnosis.
Lotus Philosophy:
Founded by Colin Chapman; emphasis on 'Lightweight,' 'Simplicity,' and 'Handling' ('When is a car light enough? When it no longer improves.' - Colin Chapman).
Elise Introduction:
The Elise (Series 1) was launched in 1996 as a spiritual successor to the Lotus Elan, focusing on raw driving feel and lightweight construction using an extruded aluminum chassis.
Exige Introduction:
The Exige, launched in 2000, was a more track-focused, harder-edged version of the Elise, featuring a closed cockpit and often a supercharged engine.
Engine Changes:
Transition from Rover K-Series to Toyota 2ZZ-GE engines in the Series 2 models to meet emissions and performance demands.
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, UK
Elise Launch Acclaim:
Widely praised at launch for its dynamic abilities, purity of driving experience, and innovative construction.
Automotive Journalism Acclaim:
Frequently featured in automotive publications, lauded by critics for its performance and handling against much more expensive machinery.
Manufacturing Standards:
Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality management systems.
