Description
It was rumoured that at launch in Frankfurt 1996, the Lotus management were slightly disappointed with the 700-kilo figure proudly displayed as kerb weight for their new Elise. Putting that into perspective that meant you could balance the scales with one 718 Porsche Boxster convertible against two of Norfolk’s finest 90’s Series 1 versions … and they were hoping for less!! Named after Elise the granddaughter of Romano Artioli (Lotus Chairman at the time) this would be the sportscar to save the Norfolk brand, as the dated Esprit was the only offering in the Lotus range at the time. It was Richard Rackham, head of Lotus's engineering who created a 68 kg chassis using bonded, hydroformed aluminium. Car magazine said at the time ‘The acceleration, the zest, the eye-popping ability to change speed and direction, the sheer unbridled sense of motion – these are what make driving the Elise so special and intense.’ A mere 5. 8 seconds to 60mph the Elise is no slouch, courtesy in-part to Rover’s 1. 8 K-series mated to a close ratio Honda derived five speed transmission combined with an incredible power to weight ratio.
In 1998 the uprated Type 111 became available and that is the example we have on consignment at Country Classic Cars. Hethal built with the Conformity Certificate stating release on the 21st March; it was registered 1st April 1998. Having had two previous owners, the current custodian took over the wheel in May 2006. The original bill of sale confirms southwest London as the first home having been supplied by well known Lotus dealers Bell & Colvill in Leatherhead. The service history is comprehensive to say the least with both original factory pack containing technical and maintenance booklets plus an additional file of invoices and MOT certificates etc.
1st service 11/ 05/ 98 @ 1513 miles
2nd service 25/ 03/ 99 @ 7370
3rd service 11/ 05/ 00 @ 10951
4th service 03/ 05/ 01 @ 13697
5th service 03/ 04/ 02 @ 17401
6th service 14/ 02/ 03 @ 20887
7th service 04/ 03/ 04 @ 27317
8th service 21/ 03/ 05 @ 30855
9th service 20/ 03/ 06 @ 33898 plus SS exhaust box & pipes
Current owner took possession
10th service 16/ 05/ 06 @ 34287
11th service 12/ 04/ 08 @ 36694 plus cam belt
From this point the Elise was on the road less than 1k miles per year and in 2013 required new brake lines and suspension springs for the MOT .. it passed but was then put into storage until 2021. That September @ 41152 miles we at Country Classic Cars were tasked with returning this Lotus to top form. A whatever she needs approach was taken and the work carried out over the following months included:
Full service all filters
Cam belt, water pump & coolant change
AP upgraded brake master cylinder
Competition (Compbrake) brake calipers, lines & discs
Suspension upgrade to coil overs
Steering and suspension parts powder coated
Anti roll bar drop links
Track rod ends/ inner & outer toe link joints
Ball joints/ wheel bearings
Fuel tank, fuel pump & sender
Handbrake cable plus equaliser
New alternator & battery
Gear linkage kit, clutch master cylinder hose
Throttle body, battery isolator, idle control valve, headlight covers and full specialist geometry set up inc. caster/ camber … the owner has invested over £10k with Country Classic Cars in mechanical improvements alone.
New soft top, removable steering wheel, larger alloy rims (to accommodate brake upgrade) locking wheel nuts, recent Tracmax tyres and finally a full respray in the original Mustard Yellow.
At Country Classic Cars we find it’s best to present a ‘warts and all’ detailed write up of any classic we are requested to sell. This helps to avoid ‘buyer’s remorse’ especially for those purchasing from abroad or interested parties travelling distances to view but it’s fair to say this Elise wants for little. The exterior presents perfectly, the recent respray is of the highest standard and after close inspection there is nothing to fault. Shut lines and panel gaps are exact, lights and lenses all correct whilst the black vinyl soft roof (generally stored in the boot space behind the engine) is free from damage. Sparce, the cabin space is only about function, no luxuries although the seating is surprisingly comfortable and even an elderly six footer can enter or exit without embarrassment … just takes a little practice. There is a Sony audio system, heater plus switches for lighting, cut off switch also a net for storage. Removing the steering wheel aids when sliding into place and with the seat fully back there is ample room for all but the tallest of drivers. The immobiliser stick requires a couple of seconds to release the start function and the dash lights up showing current milage of 41503. Instant start up and the motor settled quickly. The clutch is lighter than expected whilst gear selection is a remarkably short throw, allowing for rapid ratio changes. Our road test was short but conclusive; our technician who carried out the majority of improvements on this Elise described the drive as amazing; you won’t disagree. Exact steering and a feeling of endless grip inspires confidence, the new braking system ensures stopping is even more impressive than the acceleration. This Elise not only looks right but is now ready to bring excitement and joy to a new custodian, precise and focused no doubt any outing in this Lotus will be an experience.
Current MOT runs until June 2025 with just one advisory for a tired wiper blade, which we replaced.
For additional information please message with your email address for detailed images or a short walk-round video; we will forward the file via ‘We Transfer’ a free to use and safe service or Whats Ap if you supply your mobile phone number. Country Classic Cars operate by appointment only as our cars are kept in secure storage although currently, we are happy to offer unhindered viewings and test drives.
