🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Lotus

Model:

Elise

Year:

2001

Series:

Series 2 (S2)

Chassis Code:

111

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Lightweight Sports Car / Performance Car

Competitors 2001:

Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000, BMW Z3, Toyota MR2, Mazda MX-5 (Miata).

Philosophy:

Focus on lightweight construction, pure driving dynamics, and driver feedback, embodying Colin Chapman's design principles.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Summary:

Comprehensive repair, maintenance, technical data, and diagnostics for the 2001 Lotus Elise S2.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely several hundred pages, typical for a full factory service manual.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Digitally Delivered)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Engine, Engine Management, Transmission, Clutch, Fuel System, Engine Cooling, Electrical Systems, Chassis, Steering, Brakes, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Wheels & Tyres, Bodywork & Repair, Body Fittings, Heating & Ventilation.

Procedures:

Repair procedures, maintenance schedules, lubrication, troubleshooting, diagnostics, component replacement, adjustments, technical specifications, body repair techniques.

Depth:

In-depth coverage suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts, including detailed diagnostics and overhaul procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Clarity:

Assumed to be high quality, reflecting original factory documentation, suitable for printing.

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Delivery)

Paper Quality:

Not Applicable (Digital Delivery)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rover K-Series (K18)

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Configuration:

Inline-4 Cylinder, Mid-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive

Cylinder Head Design:

Lotus-designed K-series alloy cylinder head with four valves per cylinder.

Horsepower Approximate:

120 PS (approx. 118 bhp) for standard models, potentially higher for some S2 variants.

Torque Approximate:

165 Nm (approx. 122 lb-ft)

Fuel Injection:

Multi-point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Petrol (Gasoline)

ECU Details:

ECU (Engine Control Unit) details, sensor specifications, and diagnostic procedures for the Rover K-series ECU.

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system.

Coolant Specification:

Refer to manual for specific coolant type (e.g., Ethylene Glycol based).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Optional Transmission:

None offered for the standard 2001 S2 Elise.

Gearbox Manufacturer:

Lotus/Hewland (or similar specialist supplier).

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specification.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3790 mm (149.2 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1715 mm (67.5 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1126 mm (44.3 inches)

Curb Weight Approximate:

Approx. 720 kg (1587 lbs)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 inches)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited formal crash test data due to low volume production and chassis design; emphasis on inherent structural integrity of the extruded aluminum chassis.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), responsive steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Integral safety cell, driver's airbag, seat belts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic audio system (radio/CD player), often optional or basic fitment.

Driver Assistance Systems:

ABS, basic traction control not typically standard on this model year.

Connectivity Features:

Limited to basic audio connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Refer to manual; typically 6,000-10,000 miles or 12 months.

Major Service Interval:

Refer to manual for specific mileage/time-based major service points (e.g., timing belt if applicable, spark plugs, filters).

Engine Oil Specification:

Refer to manual for viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-40, 5W-30) and API/ACEA specifications.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4

Coolant Specification:

Refer to manual for type and mixture ratio.

Common Concerns S2 Kseries:

Head gasket reliability (especially on earlier K-series variants, though improved on later versions), potential for coolant leaks, clutch wear, minor electrical gremlins common in low-volume sports cars.

Chassis Corrosion:

Aluminum chassis is generally resistant to rust, but inspection of suspension mounting points and subframes is recommended.

Bodywork Repair:

GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) body panels require specialized repair techniques, covered in detail by this manual.

📚 Vehicle History

Founder:

Colin Chapman

Philosophy:

"Simplify, then add lightness"

Elise Introduction:

The Lotus Elise was first introduced in 1996.

S2 Introduction:

The Series 2 (S2) Elise was launched in 2001, featuring significant updates including a revised chassis, bodywork, and engine management.

Manufacturing Location:

Hethel, Norfolk, England

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling and driver engagement; frequently lauded as one of the best-handling cars in its class.