Elise buying advice

[Cuzza]

Hi,

I need some advice about buying a used Elise

I have about 14 to 15k which seems to be the bottom end of the market - will that get me something decent?

This will be my first 'proper' sportscar - is this a good place to start or are they diffiult to drive?

Dealer or private? - could do without buying a duff one

Finally, the car will have to spend at least the summer outside as mygarage is occupied by a 'project' - apart from roof leaks, is this likely to be a problem??

Sorry, lots of questions there but any advice would be much appreciated. Cheers.

[nick_houghton]

buy one, you'll never regret it !

15k could get you a V/W s1 111s at the moment, albeit private.

15k won't get you more than an R or S plate standard car at a dealer.

where in the uk are you?

[gargamel]

www.elises.co.uk - buyers guide

also faq
also search

also go and drive one from a dealer as a test drive
15k gets a real nice one

[DanH]

Also fine as a first sports car if you drive within your abilities. Also can get some driver training with 1stlotus etc.

[Cuzza]

Guys,

Thanks for the advice, I tested one on Saturday and it was fantastic. All I need is to find one in new aluminium with red leather somewhere near Southampton!

When I find one is there anyone around here who could do an inspection for me (preferably not the AA or RAC)??

Thanks again.

[zebedee]

If buying private, could take it to a lotus garage - would need to book it in though - if this warm weather stays around they'll be selling like hot cakes. Gave mine a good thrashing this weekend...

Don't worry about leaving 'em outside either. They don't mind.

But get one, ideal first sportscar - and really, really damn fast in 111S guise, the dry roads yesterday really brought that fact home - in fact the standard one is pretty fast too. Dead easy to drive up to its limits (which are high) but be careful in the wet, VERY careful at first... And everyone loves them, your mates will be queing up for a spin - mine do!