finally...
http://www.autoweek.com/cat_content.mv?por...t_code=07436823

 

Wow! 120 HP for only $38K. Be still my heart!

 

Ivs,

Have you seen these little puppies at the track? They weigh practically nothing, and you can get versions around 180 HP (I think). Considering their weight to HP ratio, these things are a real challenge to beat at the track...a guy here in Mass has two, and both him and his son drive them.

 

I'm going to assume that was sarcasm.

You're right, it is only 120hp. But it's 120hp. in a car that weighs a HELL of a lot less than your S2000.

Think street-legal super go-kart, and you've got the right idea. (Though previously, I don't know if the imported Elises WERE street legal. One gray import version with an Integra Type-R engine was, I think.)

I'd take an Elise over an S2000, probably. The power/weight ratio just makes the thing mind-blowing.

 

I thought people owning the S2000 would have some more appreciation for what the Lotus Elise is built for. The car does not need that much horsepower to push it around the track. I saw some videos of the Elise vs S2000 on some tracks and the S2000 just lost out on the corners, though the S2000 made up for it a little bit on the straights. The Elise still beat it in the end with ONLY 120hp.

Granted the Elise is not very fast, about 6+ sec 0-60mph, but neither is the S2000. These cars aren't built just for straight line. Track is where they shine and the 120hp version can still edge out the S2000 on some tracks.

 

2000 units? will this be another big mark up deal again? I really want this car, so if i can get it for sticker I'd buy it.

 

2 years too late for me, I'm perfectly satisfied with my s2000, but yes the dream was there. Too many false starts on Federalization, too insecure a manufacturer.
JohnA

 

I spoke with the Lotus rep at the LA Autoshow about the Elise. When he told me that it was coming to the states next year, I couldn't believe my ears. The car is awesome, if the general media thinks the S2000 is spartan, the Elise makes the S2000 look like a luxo-cruiser. The styling is agressive and looks like it belongs on the track and not the streets.

The rep said Lotus is currently accepting deposits for the Elise for September 2003 delivery. He mentioned something about a $10K premium that probably will be exacted for buyers who are not in the que -- ouch.

 

Drove one in Germany. Absolutely a blast! But it is easily the most bare-bones car I've ever driven. Makes the S2000 seem like a luxury cruiser (well, okay, not that much!). Loud, harsh, and with the fastest reflexes of any car. Weighs in the neighboorhood of 1500-1600 lbs.

Really wanted one. But I prefer the styling of the original I drove to this current version. The removal of the top was a 10-minute affair. Don't know if it is better now. And yes, I'd be wary of Lotus reliability/durability. But if they import 2K, they'll sell fast and high.

As a car enthusiast, I welcome it (as well as the 350Z, RX8, Lancer Evo,...)

 

A S1 Elise 190S will destroy a S2000 in everything except top speed.

They are really fast and the cornering speed is unbelievable.

Great little cars - lots of "quirks" though.

The "plain jane" version that is talked about here will probably be much more fun to drive than the S2000. I hope that they keep the weight down. I also hope that they do a Sport version that has upwards of 200-210hp.