Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car
Direct Competitors:
Caterham Seven, Porsche Boxster, Mazda MX-5 Miata (competitor segment focus, not direct rivalry)
Manual Value Proposition:
Comprehensive, detailed, searchable, printable PDF service manual enabling DIY repairs and maintenance, saving significant costs.
Vehicle Selling Points:
Exceptional handling, lightweight construction, pure driving experience, accessible performance.
Powertrain Components:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Performance, Automatic/Manual Transmissions, Drivetrain
Chassis And Suspension:
Steering & Suspension, Front end and alignment procedures + Specs, Suspension
Braking System:
Brakes, Brake servicing
Climate Control:
Air Conditioning & Heating, Air Conditioning
Electrical Systems:
Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Codes
Drivetrain Components:
U-JOINT & CV-JOINT service procedures
Steering And Alignment:
Comprehensive front-end alignment procedures and specifications included.
Engine Procedures:
Engine overhaul and rebuilding, Timing Belt Service, Serpentine Belt Routings w/ diagrams, Firing orders
Transmission Procedures:
Transmission removal & installation, Transmission in car servicing
Diagnostic Procedures:
Computer diagnostic & trouble tree charts, Drivability Concerns
Maintenance Procedures:
Factory maintenance schedules + charts
Technical Information Updates:
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and Recalls are included, vital for addressing known manufacturer-specific issues.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced Computer Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Repair Complexity:
Full Overhaul and Rebuilding procedures
Documentation Style:
Step-by-step instructions with diagrams and pictures
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners are provided.
Engine Type:
Mid-mounted, Inline-4 (Rover K-Series)
Displacement:
Typically 1.8 Liters (1796 cc) for S2 models
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 118 hp to 160 hp depending on variant (e.g., Elise S, Elise 135R, Elise Sport 160)
Torque Range:
Approximately 122 lb-ft to 130 lb-ft
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage or time interval, often around 60,000 miles or 5 years. Crucial due to interference engine design.
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (Ricardo or Quaife)
Type:
Some early S2 variants might have had limited automatic options, but manual is standard and dominant.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual, optimized for lightweight performance.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 specification, typically a synthetic manual transmission fluid.
Length:
Approx. 3790 mm (149.2 in)
Width:
Approx. 1700 mm (66.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1125 mm (44.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 700-770 kg (1543-1698 lbs) depending on specification
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 in)
Crash Test Information:
Limited official crash test data due to low-volume sports car classification. Focus on inherent safety through chassis design and driver focus.
Braking System Type:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear)
ABS:
Available on later S2 models and specific variants.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard.
Chassis Safety:
Integral safety cell (Lotus 'Safety Cell' concept) offering excellent occupant protection.
Audio System:
Basic radio/CD player often installed, with speaker placement focused on driver experience.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, typically linked to ABS system.
No Advanced Connectivity:
Focus is on pure driving; no integrated navigation, Bluetooth, or complex infotainment systems typical of modern cars.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically every 6,000 - 10,000 miles or 12 months.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual; often includes spark plugs, filters, brake fluid, and timing belt inspection/replacement.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity and API rating (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-40, API SN or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 Liters (4.7 - 5.3 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant, typically a pink or orange long-life formulation.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (minimum) or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.
Engine Coolant Leaks:
Potential for head gasket failure or coolant pipe leaks, particularly with the Rover K-Series engine. Manual details diagnostic and repair procedures.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear can be accelerated with spirited driving; manual covers inspection and replacement.
Weather Sealing:
Potential for water ingress; manual covers sealing checks and adjustments for doors, roof, and windows.
Core Philosophy:
Lightweight, simplicity, purity of driving experience.
Predecessor:
Lotus Elise Series 1 (S1)
Production End Year:
2010 (replaced by Elise S3)
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, UK
Key Variants:
Elise S, Elise 135R, Elise Sport 160, Elise Type 25, Elise Type 72, Elise SC, Elise Club Racer
