Lotus Exige S1: Spotted

So the new Exige Cup is a fabulous thing, but the original was pretty special too

Pictures can make or break an advert. Even if the description is good, a few ropey images can arouse suspicion; why rush the pics? Is there something to hide?

Now this is how to do advert pictures

And moreover, great pictures draw buyers in. When you're trawling through pages of ads with similar photos, it takes something special to grab the attention. This Exige did exactly that; even with just seven other S1s available, it stands out a mile.

In fact all of the images for this Chrome Orange Exige are excellent, the one with the plane especially. You want it now, regardless of the price, regardless of the advert details.

As luck would have it, this Exige is the cheapest S1 on PH and comes with a well written and detailed advert. Phew. The primary reason for its relative affordability (the other early Exiges are typically around £30K, this one is £22,995) is the mileage; it has been this owner's daily driver, hence its 51,000 miles. But as is pointed out, having to rely on the car means it's been kept in good working condition and an average of around 4,000 miles a year is hardly racking them up. Kudos for using something so fabulously uncompromising every day too.

Live out your Group C fantasies right here

There's a fondness for the early Elise derivatives now that's being reflected in used values. As Dan mentioned in the Exige Cup review, that original dynamic delicacy is gradually being eroded in the pursuit of performance. The Exige arguably straddles both perfectly, matching the Toyota-powered S2 for power but with the Elise S1 origins (and many would say better looks). And for those with K Series concerns, the head gasket on this car was changed less than 3,000 miles ago.

Take a look at the interior picture; who doesn't want to drive it right now? It's sparse but beautiful, containing only what's required for a totally immersive drive. As with the outside, it looks to be in superb condition also.

The most vital check when contemplating an Exige is crash damage as the aluminium chassis has to be replaced rather than repaired in most cases. This particular Exige has an MOT looming too.

Having said that, there seem to be decent investment potential in S1 Exiges, with values gradually climbing as those of S2s slide and the new Exige arguably moves further from the original. Buy it, enjoy it, and don't forget to take some pictures.

LOTUS EXIGE S1 VHPD
Engine: 1,796cc four-cylinder
Transmission: Five-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 195@7,800rpm
Torque (lb ft): 146@5,000rpm
MPG: NA
CO2: NA
Recorded mileage: 51,285
First registered: 2001
Price new: £32,995
Yours for: £22,995