1998 LOTUS ELISE

This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, The Iconic Sale at the NEC Classic Motor Show 2026 on Saturday the 14th of November, NEC, Birmingham, B40 1NT. Estimated price: GBP 28,000 - GBP 32,000. Few sports cars have embodied Colin Chapman's philosophy of performance through light weight quite as successfully as the original Lotus Elise. Introduced in 1996, the Series 1 combined an innovative bonded aluminium chassis, minimal weight and unassisted steering to deliver an extraordinarily involving driving experience. Almost three decades later, the earliest examples remain particularly sought after for their purity, simplicity and remarkable agility.

This 1998 example is an especially interesting interpretation of that original formula. Finished in distinctive Chrome Orange, it features the early lightweight 'green glue' bonded chassis, aluminium hubs and Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) braking system, characteristics associated with the first generation of Elise production. Its appeal is further enhanced by a period conversion undertaken by Race Speed to RS160 specification, with its 1.8-litre Rover K-Series engine reportedly producing approximately 160bhp and delivering a quoted power-to-weight ratio in the region of 215bhp per tonne.

The engine specification is extensive, incorporating an uprated Sabre cylinder head prepared by K-Series specialist Roger Fabry of Janspeed, Piper 270 camshafts, adjustable verniers, a lightweight flywheel, 52mm throttle body and alloy inlet manifold. Further enhancements include a Moto-Build performance induction system, Sport 160 exhaust manifold and system, repackable silencer and sports catalytic converter. Cooling improvements comprise a PRT remote thermostat conversion, silicone hoses and an alloy radiator with twin cooling fans.

Having remained in its current ownership for 14 years, the Elise has benefited from an extensive programme of maintenance, development and restoration, with particular emphasis on its mechanical components and underlying chassis. Particularly significant was the comprehensive engine rebuild undertaken in 2025, during which components were replaced or refurbished as required. The close-ratio gearbox was also rebuilt, whilst new engine mounts, an alternator, starter motor and additional engine bay heat protection formed part of the wider programme of work. An alloy long-range fuel tank and uprated fuel pump are also fitted.

Equal attention has been devoted to the chassis and running gear. During 2025, the suspension was extensively refurbished, with the arms removed and powder-coated, new bushes, ball joints and wheel bearings fitted, and the driveshafts refurbished. A new steering rack and anti-roll bar bushes were installed, together with uprated rear toe links. The Nitron dampers were professionally serviced in 2025, whilst the braking system benefited from refurbished calipers, new seals and associated components, replacement master cylinders and braided hoses. The rear subframe was subsequently removed and powder-coated in 2026.

Externally, the Chrome Orange bodywork is complemented by a Sport 160 rear spoiler with risers, an aluminium engine cover and distinctive Technomagnesio Victory alloy wheels wearing recent Yokohama AD08RS tyres. The original soft-top has been professionally refurbished by Allon White, whilst the original Lotus boot bag accompanies the car. Considerable attention has also been paid to smaller details, including replacement stainless-steel body and undertray fixings incorporating vibration-reducing shims.

Inside, the minimalist Elise cockpit retains its purposeful character, with black leather seats, Alcantara dashboard and door trim, factory carpeting and a Momo 88 Alcantara flat-bottom steering wheel. Carefully selected upgrades include an improved T7 heater system, a Power Acoustik head unit with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a discreetly installed Pioneer subwoofer and a reversing camera. The odometer indicated 59,951 miles at the time of cataloguing, and the car benefits from an MOT valid until July 2027, issued with no advisories.

With 14 years of committed ownership, substantial recent mechanical investment and its striking Chrome Orange finish, this RS160 represents a particularly appealing opportunity to acquire a particularly well-developed example of Lotus' landmark lightweight sports car.