I want an Elise!

[nickjones100]

Hi I'm new. Oh dear, I hear you say! Thing is I am in the market for an Elise. Never had one before. I would really appreciate some basic advice. In particular, which models to go for, things to be aware of, mileage issues, cam belts, what to expect etc. I've seen some seemingly great cars on Autotrader but I'm going in blind at the moment. So....dealer versus private, hard/soft tops, modifications, which engines blah, blah, blah! Imagine you know these cars and your best mate has around £12-14k to spend. How would you advise him (or her!)? Any input welcome!

Edited by nickjones100 on Friday 7th November 22:58

[nickjones100]

Actually, I should add one thing. I intend to bring the car to Mallorca where I am working now. Support is not an issue as some good motorsport/supercar connections, but.....there is no LHD, for example. Is there? You can tell I'm just starting this!!

[nickjones100]

Ahh! So LHD made by the factory? That's great news! Thank you. I'll do some searching in Europe, although I can buy from UK funds. Also rarity in Europe can push relative prices up and provenance may be tricky to establish. Also read today that they get quite hot in the cabin? Maybe aircon could be important? Hmm...great fun!

[nickjones100]

Ok great thanks!

[nickjones100]

Thanks to everyone for your comments. As a result and a lot of web activity over the weekend, I have found a nice looking LHD low mileage car at a good price here in Spain! So now the serious stuff starts! Which leads to another thought. Anyone know of a specialist in Spain who could give it an inspection for me? I'm getting there!!

[nickjones100]

Thank you for all the input! Great stuff! Well as I will be using it a few times a week I reckon I can probably live with the heat stuff! Short journeys, apart from the events with my friends from Driving Mallorca (check out www.drifingmallorca.com) which is bonkers anyway.

So I've found a repossessed euro spec 2008 SC LHD car for the same price as a good S2 2004 model. Due diligence required methinks! Awesome car though.

The dream gets closer, and I just can't wait to get going. I have a funny feeling ill end up with a really nice uk spec S2 with a good provenance though. No doubt I'll have a load more stupid questions tomorrow! So thanks for the input so far!! Needless to say my budget is being tested!

[nickjones100]

Sorry! Forgot to ask. Anyone know of a Lotus expert who could do a short notice inspection of the S2 which is in Cheshire? May need it done by the weekend. Thanks!

[nickjones100]

Sorry! Forgot to ask. Anyone know of a Lotus expert who could do a short notice inspection of the S2 which is in Cheshire? May need it done by the weekend. Thanks!

[nickjones100]

Great input everyone! Thank you. The LHD car I found was a scam! So back to the hunt! Thanks Friday. You can email me on [e-mail]. So.....anyone know of any websites to search for LHD cars in Europe? Meanwhile, I'm finding a few nice things in the UK, but then the hassle of being in Spain ......import, registration, etc. won't be giving up though, can't wait to hit these fab roads! Getting the right car is probably the most important thing!

[nickjones100]

Thanks fridaypassion that's great.