Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight, pure sports car.
Usp Vehicle:
Exceptional handling, driver engagement, minimalist design, lightweight construction.
Direct Competitors:
Porsche Boxster (986), Honda S2000, Mazda RX-7 (FD), Toyota MR2 (W20/W30).
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables cost savings through DIY parts sourcing and accurate ordering, empowering owners.
Manual Benefit 1:
Empowers owners to independently identify and source parts.
Manual Benefit 2:
Reduces reliance on expensive dealership parts departments.
Manual Benefit 3:
Provides visual clarity for complex assemblies.
Overall Coverage:
Comprehensive parts list and exploded views for ordering replacement parts.
Target Audience:
Owners, independent workshops, and parts specialists.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely 300-600 pages (typical for a comprehensive parts catalog of this era and complexity).
Type:
Parts List / Parts Catalog.
Language:
English (presumed, based on market and product description).
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, based on typical online sales of such materials).
Powertrain:
Engine components, exhaust system, cooling system, fuel system.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, gearbox (transmission), drive shafts, differentials.
Chassis And Suspension:
Chassis tub, front and rear suspension components, steering system.
Brakes:
Brake calipers, discs, lines, master cylinder, ABS components (if applicable).
Electrical:
Wiring harnesses, lighting, battery, starter, alternator, ECUs, sensors.
Bodywork:
Body panels (front clam, rear clam, doors, sills), interior trim, seats, fasteners.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire fitment, lug nuts, valve stems.
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC components (if applicable), interior fittings, weather seals.
Part Identification:
Identification of individual components through exploded diagrams and part numbers.
Part Ordering:
Facilitates accurate ordering of specific replacement parts.
Component Location:
Visual reference for locating specific parts on the vehicle.
Basic Assembly Disassembly:
Implied understanding of assembly/disassembly for part referencing.
Depth:
Detailed breakdown of all factory-specified parts and their interrelationships.
Specificity:
Provides exact Lotus part numbers for accurate sourcing.
Visual Aid Quality:
Exploded views and diagrams are designed for ease of understanding.
Engine Code:
Rover K-Series (specific variants apply to different Elise models within this period).
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated.
Displacement:
Typically 1.8 Liters (1796 cc).
Horsepower:
Approx. 118 hp (120 PS) for early models, up to 135 hp (136 PS) for later variants like the 111.
Torque:
Approx. 122 lb-ft (165 Nm) for early models, up to 120 lb-ft (163 Nm) for later variants.
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (RON 95 or 98 recommended).
ECU:
Lotus/Rover proprietary ECU.
Type:
Lotus/Rover PG1 5-speed manual transaxle.
Type:
N/A (Manual transmission was standard and the only option).
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary slightly by model year and variant, but designed for sporty performance.
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Gearbox Oil:
API GL-4 SAE 75W/90 Synthetic Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90 or equivalent).
Length:
Approx. 3700 mm (145.7 in).
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in).
Height:
Approx. 1150 mm (45.3 in).
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 in).
Curb Weight:
Approx. 720-760 kg (1587-1676 lbs) depending on specification.
Crash Test Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings by modern standards due to its niche, low-volume nature and design philosophy; emphasis on active safety (handling).
Handling Characteristics:
Exceptional grip, precise steering, balanced chassis.
Braking System:
4-wheel disc brakes with ABS (on some variants).
Airbags:
Driver's airbag (standard on most models).
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced aluminium chassis tub with integrated roll-over structure.
Audio System:
Basic period-appropriate AM/FM radio with cassette or CD player. Often aftermarket upgrades are common.
Speakers:
Typically two speakers, often door-mounted or behind seats.
ABS:
Available on certain models, particularly later or higher-spec versions.
Traction Control:
Generally not fitted to early S1 models; some later variants might have had it.
Connectivity Features:
Minimal. Focus is on the driving experience, not electronic connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Significant service (e.g., cambelt) usually around 60,000 miles or 5 years, depending on engine variant and specific recommendations.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 10W/40 or 10W/50 (check manual for specific recommendations).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. (e.g., Prestone or equivalent).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (shared reservoir with brakes on many models).
Engine Head Gasket:
The Rover K-series engine is known for potential head gasket failure, particularly under high stress or if maintenance is neglected. Proper torque and coolant levels are critical.
Aluminium Corrosion:
Corrosion can occur on the aluminium chassis tub, especially in areas exposed to salt or moisture. Regular inspection and protection are advised.
Cooling System:
Potential for coolant leaks due to aging hoses and components. Ensure cooling system is flushed and refilled per schedule.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
The clutch slave cylinder can be a point of failure; leaks may occur.
Founding Philosophy:
Lotus Cars was founded by Colin Chapman with a focus on 'lightweight and handling'.
Elise Introduction:
The Elise was conceived as a spiritual successor to the original Lotus Elan, but with modern construction techniques.
S1 Key Developments:
Introduction of the bonded extruded aluminium chassis, composite body panels, and the Rover K-series engine.
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, England.
Production Volume:
Relatively low-volume, hand-built sports car.
