Hi All!
I've never owned a "sporty" car before but I have been seriously considering one the past week or so.
My Dad had an Esprit back in his younger years so I've always said I want a Lotus (specifically an black Exige which reminds me of a bat mobile, but too expensive to buy right now and too powerful for me I'd imagine).
So my second choice is an Elise!
I've read loads on various forums, watched videos etc, and originally came to the conclusion that an S2 111R 2006 or newer, not supercharged, Toyota engine and cam chain rather than belt for robustness would be best pick? However, after getting some feedback on other forums, and watching some other videos, it seems that and S2 111S may be better as the brakes are better and don't have to rev so high like with the 111R.
So changed my mind to an S2 111S K-series engine preferably with touring package (electric windows, carpeting etc). Tell me if I'm barking up the wrong Elise tree for a newbie!
Also read that S2's have a fair few refinements done after the S1. Probably go for a hard top with soft top included for top down days.
Up near Aberdeen so wondering if there are any reputable garages that would carry out repairs/maintenance for me as I would be totally useless at it!
Id also like to try some track days after doing a bit of a training session at Knockhill. In my mind a once or twice a year on the track would be fine as a novice!
What's then Lotus community like up near Aberdeen? Unfortunately don't know anyone with a Lotus but would be nice to get out and about in the Lotus community up here!
Seems like it's hard to find any S2 Elise's up near Aberdeen for sale. Id like to try one out to see if I'm suited to the "funness" of them if anyone is willing to let me try haha!
Any opinions or guidance would be well appreciated!
Fran
Noob here!
Re: Noob here!
IMO you are unlikely to understand just how fun they are with a short reserved shot in someone else's. The various models all are all a little different (S1/S2/S3/Rover/Toyota etc) so do some research as you have, find the one you fancy and go for it. Be prepared for the rawness. very comfortable but can be pretty noisy. Plenty of SE'ers from your neck of the woods for advice on garages. Be prepared to travel for a good one, but they are a lot of Lotus' hidden away in Scotland. Happy hunting
Re: Noob here!
Welcome, Fran!
You may have found a sweet spot with your choice on S2 111S.
If outright speed is not your goal then also look at the Elise S from approx 2005 to 2009 ish. 134bhp Toyota engine, not high revvy like 111R. A fair alternative to 111S and is a further mild “evolution” in the model lifespan.
But both these models are creeping up in price so choose carefully. Some people asking daft money for them. Make a spreadsheet of asking prices and monitor for a wee while?
You will have a great time.
You may have found a sweet spot with your choice on S2 111S.
If outright speed is not your goal then also look at the Elise S from approx 2005 to 2009 ish. 134bhp Toyota engine, not high revvy like 111R. A fair alternative to 111S and is a further mild “evolution” in the model lifespan.
But both these models are creeping up in price so choose carefully. Some people asking daft money for them. Make a spreadsheet of asking prices and monitor for a wee while?
You will have a great time.
http://www.rathmhor.com | Coaching, training, consultancy
Re: Noob here!
Hi Fran
Just realised after I responded to your post on PH to come here that you already had
Welcome anyway and hopefully some of the nice ABZ lot will be along to offer you local assistance.
As mentioned previously I'm in Dundee, you're welcome to kick tyres and chat but mine is an S1
Just realised after I responded to your post on PH to come here that you already had
Welcome anyway and hopefully some of the nice ABZ lot will be along to offer you local assistance.
As mentioned previously I'm in Dundee, you're welcome to kick tyres and chat but mine is an S1
Ross
---------
1972 Alfaholics Giulia Super
2000 Elise S1 Sport 160
2004 Bentley Conti GT
2017 Schkoda Yeti
Now browsing the tech pages
---------
1972 Alfaholics Giulia Super
2000 Elise S1 Sport 160
2004 Bentley Conti GT
2017 Schkoda Yeti
Now browsing the tech pages
Re: Noob here!
Welcome along.
S2, absolutely, if you're not used to this type of car. I'm the worlds greatest S1 supporter, had one for ten years and nearly 100k miles, a lot of that as a daily driver. However they are classic cars now and had their designed in issues from new. S2s did have a raft of improvements in quality designed in and the later you go, largely the better they get.
Campbell makes a really solid point re the Toyota S - depends where pricing is versus the Rover K Series S and how tight your budget is. Again, I'm a big Rover K series flag waver, but not historically problem free, being kind, and age doesn't reduce that - the Yotas are a different league if maintained and left alone.
You're doing the best thing though - try to see some, do lots of research, get a feel for what they are - for someone used to modern cars, they are in some ways shockingly basic and raw. You are responsible for your safety, not electronics. They make an MX5 feel like a Merc.
S2, absolutely, if you're not used to this type of car. I'm the worlds greatest S1 supporter, had one for ten years and nearly 100k miles, a lot of that as a daily driver. However they are classic cars now and had their designed in issues from new. S2s did have a raft of improvements in quality designed in and the later you go, largely the better they get.
Campbell makes a really solid point re the Toyota S - depends where pricing is versus the Rover K Series S and how tight your budget is. Again, I'm a big Rover K series flag waver, but not historically problem free, being kind, and age doesn't reduce that - the Yotas are a different league if maintained and left alone.
You're doing the best thing though - try to see some, do lots of research, get a feel for what they are - for someone used to modern cars, they are in some ways shockingly basic and raw. You are responsible for your safety, not electronics. They make an MX5 feel like a Merc.
2010 Honda VFR1200F
1990 Honda VFR400 NC30
2000 Honda VTR1000 SP1
2000 Kawasaki ZX-7R
1990 Honda VFR400 NC30
2000 Honda VTR1000 SP1
2000 Kawasaki ZX-7R
Re: Noob here!
All the advice comes from the wise owls above. Enjoyed my 111R - the later ones had the rev limit reduced for the mad zone.
Where are you (must be time for Steve to organise a run brunch soon
) ?
Where are you (must be time for Steve to organise a run brunch soon
) ?
Last edited by Mr Momo on Sun Oct 13, 2024 5:43 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Emira - Volvo spec
A1 S-Line - Dennis the Menace spec
A1 S-Line - Dennis the Menace spec
Re: Noob here!
Hello Fran
I am based up in Aberdeen and there are a few of us here been on the Lotus scene for a few years, meeting up socially for either breakfast meets, chipper runs, camping trips and some trackdays along the way too. I had an S2 111s Elise Rover Engine 156hp car as my first Lotus and it was great fun. Hopefully you will get a car which will give you as much enjoyment too as they are all great cars, but slightly different across the different variants. Pistonheads and Autotrader are great place to start and you could get a great deal at this time of year if you get a good one. I will see if I can organise a social meet in November probably on a Sunday morning and get a few of the guys along who can answer some of your questions. Keep a look on here.
Feel free to keep asking questions on here though, as even though this forum is quiet these days, there is still a strong Lotus community with many being close friends for over twenty-five years now. I bought my Elise in 2009 and have had so many enjoyable times along the way. Have you a budget in mind at all as this would help others suggest suitable cars for you. I have used Craig Moncrieff (Edinburgh) to look after my cars and he has been a pleasure to deal with. Going way above the normal garage usual formalities. I would at least give him a call to see if he has anything for sale that would suit you, or he may know of something coming to the market that you may like. I would suggest buying the best variant that you can of your choice and give the car a proper service. Belts, fluids, geometry check and don’t drive on old hard tyres, irrespective of how much tread is left on them. On that note, take it easy on wet roads at first as you could possibly get caught out on driving a short wheel-based, rear wheeled drive car, with limited if any driver aides. There are plenty of brilliant roads around Aberdeenshire for really enjoying any Lotus and keep an eye on this forum for any upcoming trackdays. SIDC usually do a spring and autumn track day and LOT do them pretty much all year, but not at the KH circuit. Trackdays are great for pushing you and the car to the limits in a more safely manner than on the road. Also instruction is very worthwhile and is a must in my opinion. Beware though as track days can become addictive as they are great fun. Pop along to the next SIDC day probably in March and have a wonder down to the pit garages and introduce yourself to the Lotus guys there. We are a friendly bunch.
Good luck with your purchase.
Jon Seal is another independent who may have something that suits your needs and also a very nice guy to deal with. Give him a call.
Steve
I am based up in Aberdeen and there are a few of us here been on the Lotus scene for a few years, meeting up socially for either breakfast meets, chipper runs, camping trips and some trackdays along the way too. I had an S2 111s Elise Rover Engine 156hp car as my first Lotus and it was great fun. Hopefully you will get a car which will give you as much enjoyment too as they are all great cars, but slightly different across the different variants. Pistonheads and Autotrader are great place to start and you could get a great deal at this time of year if you get a good one. I will see if I can organise a social meet in November probably on a Sunday morning and get a few of the guys along who can answer some of your questions. Keep a look on here.
Feel free to keep asking questions on here though, as even though this forum is quiet these days, there is still a strong Lotus community with many being close friends for over twenty-five years now. I bought my Elise in 2009 and have had so many enjoyable times along the way. Have you a budget in mind at all as this would help others suggest suitable cars for you. I have used Craig Moncrieff (Edinburgh) to look after my cars and he has been a pleasure to deal with. Going way above the normal garage usual formalities. I would at least give him a call to see if he has anything for sale that would suit you, or he may know of something coming to the market that you may like. I would suggest buying the best variant that you can of your choice and give the car a proper service. Belts, fluids, geometry check and don’t drive on old hard tyres, irrespective of how much tread is left on them. On that note, take it easy on wet roads at first as you could possibly get caught out on driving a short wheel-based, rear wheeled drive car, with limited if any driver aides. There are plenty of brilliant roads around Aberdeenshire for really enjoying any Lotus and keep an eye on this forum for any upcoming trackdays. SIDC usually do a spring and autumn track day and LOT do them pretty much all year, but not at the KH circuit. Trackdays are great for pushing you and the car to the limits in a more safely manner than on the road. Also instruction is very worthwhile and is a must in my opinion. Beware though as track days can become addictive as they are great fun. Pop along to the next SIDC day probably in March and have a wonder down to the pit garages and introduce yourself to the Lotus guys there. We are a friendly bunch.
Good luck with your purchase.
Jon Seal is another independent who may have something that suits your needs and also a very nice guy to deal with. Give him a call.
Steve
-
alicrozier
- Posts: 4381
- Joined: Thu Sep 01, 2005 12:58 pm
- Location: Aberdeen
Re: Noob here!
Similar to Steve I started off with an S2 111S but way back in 2002 when it was new. I'd agree it's a great first road Elise and occasional track car.
Buying now I'd sway towards a new Toyota engined car. Yes they love to rev but also still have enough torque at low revs on the road.
Maybe not rule out a 190 S2 Exige if budget allows, visually I think they are much nicer especially if want a hardtop most of the time (and you can still have a soft top). I had a Magnetic Blue one, new in 2005 - very similar to this:
https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/16530647
Buying now I'd sway towards a new Toyota engined car. Yes they love to rev but also still have enough torque at low revs on the road.
Maybe not rule out a 190 S2 Exige if budget allows, visually I think they are much nicer especially if want a hardtop most of the time (and you can still have a soft top). I had a Magnetic Blue one, new in 2005 - very similar to this:
https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/16530647
All characters appearing in this post are fictitious. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Any references to laptimes, speed or driving on the public highway are purely for dramatic effect.
Any references to laptimes, speed or driving on the public highway are purely for dramatic effect.
Re: Noob here!
Hi Fran,
I'm in the Aberdeen area, I have a S2 Exige and take it to the afore mentioned Craig Moncrieff Cars for its service and MOT.
I'm in the Aberdeen area, I have a S2 Exige and take it to the afore mentioned Craig Moncrieff Cars for its service and MOT.
Re: Noob here!
Hello Fran,
How are you getting on regarding your search for your first Lotus?
Steve
How are you getting on regarding your search for your first Lotus?
Steve