- Car
- Lotus
- Lotus Elise
- Lotus S1 (4 offers)
Lotus Elise S1 Classic Cars For Sale
First unveiled in 1996, the Lotus Elise S1 transformed the roadster market with its innovative design. Its fiberglass body paired with a lightweight aluminum chassis continues to captivate classic car enthusiasts and sports car fans. The minimalist approach embodies the ideals of Lotus founder Colin Chapman, focusing on low weight and a dynamic engine for pure driving enjoyment. The model name is a tribute to Elisa, the granddaughter of Romano Artioli, then-CEO of Lotus. Following the first generation S1, two more series (S2 and S3) were produced before the model line was discontinued in 2021.
Search results
1999 | Lotus Elise 111
S1 LHD from first family ownership
1998 | Lotus Elise 111
Lotus Elise 1.8-16V 120 hardtop+softtop 43000 miles!
1997 | Lotus Elise 111
Lotus Elise 1.8-16V VVC 145 pk .
Special Features of the Lotus Elise S1
The Lotus Elise S1 is renowned for its impressive power-to-weight ratio and remarkable dynamics. Its lightweight construction allows drivers to feel a direct and unfiltered connection to the road. On our marketplace, the S1 series of Elise holds a notable position, accounting for 6.8% of the Lotus vehicles offered and meeting 7.9% of the demand for Lotus cars. This highlights its popularity and rarity compared to other models of the brand and series.
Technical Specifications
Buying Advice / Weaknesses
Despite its minimalist design, the Lotus Elise S1 has several critical aspects to consider before purchasing. Inspecting the intactness of the aluminum monocoque is crucial, as damage can be difficult to repair and may not meet vehicle inspection standards. A rust-free steel rear frame and robust suspension bearings add value to the vehicle. The Rover K motor can experience thermal issues without proper maintenance, so a thicker radiator is recommended. Any modifications should be carefully considered, as they are often hard to reverse.
Engine and Driving Experience
The mid-engine layout of the Lotus Elise S1 offers a balanced, sporty drive. Its light weight and lack of complex electronic systems allow for unmatched agility and responsiveness on both roads and tracks. The manual transmission and rear-wheel drive provide an authentic driving experience focused entirely on the enthusiast.
Interior and Design
The purist approach of the Lotus Elise S1 is evident in its functional design, lack of excessive features, and focus on essential driving elements. The interior is kept minimal to reduce weight and enhance the driving experience. Optional special paintwork and modest design variations emphasize the individuality of the vehicle.
Summary
The Lotus Elise S1 captivates with its blend of lightweight construction and pure driving enjoyment. A milestone in roadster development, it offers an incomparably authentic driving experience, marked by performance, iconic design, and technological simplicity. For collectors and classic car enthusiasts, the Elise S1 remains an indispensable vehicle that will make any sports car lover's heart race.