Vehicle Type:
Lightweight, two-seater, mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car
Key Competitors:
Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000, BMW Z3, Alfa Romeo GTV
Unique Selling Proposition:
Exceptional handling due to lightweight construction (Lotus 'Recapture the Driving Experience' philosophy), bonded aluminum chassis, and aerodynamic design
Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair
Coverage Scope:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Type:
Factory Service/Repair Manual
Operating Systems:
All Versions of Windows & Mac (including Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000)
Delivery:
Instant Download
User Experience:
Designed for DIY use with step-by-step instructions, making complex repairs accessible to enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Powertrain:
Engine, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel and Emission Control System, Engine Electrical System, Clutch, Manual & Auto Transaxle, Front & Rear Axle
Chassis:
Steering System, Braking System, Suspension, Wheels & Tires
Body And Electrical:
Body, Body Electrical System, Heating & Air Conditioning Systems
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacement, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems
Installation:
Procedures for component replacement and system reassembly
Depth:
Factory-level detail, including specifications, diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics for comprehensive repair
Technical Data Section:
Includes comprehensive technical specifications, torque values, tolerances, and diagnostic data for all covered systems.
Special Tools Section:
Lists and describes specialized tools required for specific maintenance and repair procedures unique to Lotus vehicles.
Electrical Diagrams:
Detailed wiring schematics are included for the engine management, lighting, HVAC, and body electrical systems, crucial for diagnosis and repair.
Engine Code:
Rover K-Series (Rover Group K8/K18)
Engine Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 118-120 bhp (88-89 kW) at 5500 rpm (standard models)
Torque:
Approx. 122 lb-ft (165 Nm) at 4200 rpm (standard models)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
ECU Type:
Various ECUs depending on specific market and emissions regulations (e.g., Lucas, Bosch)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (Hewland/Lotus E-series, derived from Peugeot/Renault components)
Availability:
No automatic transmission offered for S1 Elise
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated dry single-plate clutch
Gearbox Oil:
GL4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90 or equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 3720 mm (146.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1660 mm (65.4 in)
Height:
Approx. 1140 mm (44.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 720 kg (1587 lbs) - highly variable depending on specification
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified in a way comparable to mainstream vehicles; focus is on light weight
Crash Test Results:
Lotus Elise S1 was not subjected to standardized crash testing regimes like NCAP due to its niche market and focus on light weight and minimalist design.
Braking System:
Four-wheel Girling disc brakes with (optional) ABS on some later models
Chassis Safety:
Integral safety cell within the bonded aluminum chassis, driver's side airbag (standard from 1997), reinforced windshield frame
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Not standard
Audio System:
Basic aftermarket or factory radio/cassette/CD player options, often with limited speaker configurations. Manual covers wiring for integration.
ABS:
Optional on some models, detailed in the braking system section.
Diagnostic Ports:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port, though early S1 models might have proprietary or earlier diagnostic connectors. Manual will specify.
Oil Change:
Every 6,000 miles (10,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
Major Service:
Refer to manual for specific intervals for timing belt (if applicable, though K-Series is often chain or belt-driven depending on variant), spark plugs, and coolant
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2/A3, Viscosity 10W-40 or 15W-50 (depending on climate and manufacturer recommendation - consult manual for exact specs)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific requirement)
Engine Head Gasket:
The Rover K-Series engine is known for potential head gasket failures, especially if not maintained properly or if the engine is overheated. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Chassis Corrosion:
While the aluminum tub is resistant to rust, steel subframes and suspension components can be susceptible to corrosion. Regular inspection is recommended.
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners report minor electrical issues due to the compact nature of the wiring harness and exposure. The wiring schematics are crucial here.
Founding Philosophy:
Founded by Colin Chapman with principles of 'Simplify, then Add Lightness'
Elise Concept:
Conceived as a spiritual successor to the Lotus Seven, focusing on pure driving engagement
S1 Introduction:
Launched in 1996, replacing the Lotus Elan M100 and marking a significant departure with its composite body and bonded aluminum tub chassis
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, England
Production Volume:
Limited production numbers, with approximately 3,000 S1 Elises produced worldwide
