You need to find a road with *lots* of corners.

 

Some very positive Eurohoon comments re. the S over at Pistonheads:
http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.a...27057&f=131&h=0

 

Some cracking pics on that link

FWIW re 02-04 difference, my dealer principal is a pretty experienced driver (still races motorbikes).

When the 04 came out he initially didn't like it because..

"You know how I like to wag the tail - I just couldn't get the back end out in the dry. No problems in the wet of course"

He later grew to like the 04 though - seems the slightly more compliant set up lets him push the car harder as the rear sticks better (in the dry anyway).

But as everyone says, try both and see what you think.

 

Actually, there's no reason why one cannot dial out some of the noncy excessive rear toe-in on the later cars, in order to improve turn in and rear wheel steer. The longer toe control links of the '04 DO reduce RWS compared to the original cars, but they are otherwise fully adjustable.

The stiffer subframes and better damping are probably no bad thing.

Anyway, I would agree that the 507 is the best road in the area - especially the run back down to Baldock.

And the Yeeee Haaaah bridge near Cottered. The S2K flies well, too.

I too, have driven an Elise and was amazed by its brakes, handling, etc.

The S2000 is such a different car, make sure you do enjoy it.

 

Well, how did it go ?

 

Aye, how was it!

 

Should we start checking the local hedges

 

Hold your horses chaps, no need to start checking the hedges for me. Cheeky buggers!

I'll tell you about my test drive in another thread soon.

 

I had an Elise for 3 years and changed to an S2000 last year. I think the main differences are these ...

The S2000 is easier to drive at speed because the car feels more solid.

You lose that great feel from the Lotus steering (the Honda is still good though), but gain a much better gear change.

The Lotus pulls away much quicker from a standing start. That would be the biggest 'con' in the pros & cons list for changing cars.

The S2000 roof goes up and down by pressing a button, this is a great toy - especially if you are used to building your roof from sticks and bits of canvass.

The S2000 is much heavier on petrol and insurance, but main Honda dealer servicing is much cheaper than Lotus (cheaper even than independent Lotus specialists)

The sound and burst of acceleration in VTec zone never gets boring. The Lotus doesn't have this.

Basically you have to spend a lot more money to get a 2 seater that's better than an S2000. I'd say it's a good choice if you are looking for a change, I certainly don't regret it.


Hope that helps.