Elise S1 vs S2
Discussion
Hi there,
I'm consdiering getting an Elise as a second car that will do a reasonable mileage each year (circa 6000-7000). Whilst my budget of 9K will get me a nice S1 I have though about saving a bit more and getting an S2. What are the main differences between the cars? Is the S2 worth the extra bearing in kind the usage of the car?
Is the S2 better built, more reliable, more refined, etc?
I'll be looking for a completely standard car with a good history and no accident damage.
Thanks and all the best.
Martin.
I'm consdiering getting an Elise as a second car that will do a reasonable mileage each year (circa 6000-7000). Whilst my budget of 9K will get me a nice S1 I have though about saving a bit more and getting an S2. What are the main differences between the cars? Is the S2 worth the extra bearing in kind the usage of the car?
Is the S2 better built, more reliable, more refined, etc?
I'll be looking for a completely standard car with a good history and no accident damage.
Thanks and all the best.
Martin.
There's been plenty written on this forum on this topic... searching S1 vs. S2 will bring up a fair few threads.
Generally the S1 is a more "Raw" experience, the S2 sacrificing some of this for a bit more luxury/practicality.
I'd not say that an S1 is any more or less reliable than an S2 given similar mileage and service history. Mechanically they're similar.
Things that may swing it for you is the practicality stakes. S1s are noisier, rattlier and the roof is a pain in the ass compared to most convertibles whereas the (short roof) S2s are a LOT easier to put up/down. S1s are harder to get into and out of, by some margin and S2s generally come with Aircon (it's more common anyway). She S2 rides better than the S1 for a very minor handling compromise.
But either is a viable prospect, just make sure you get one that's been looked after. Don't worry too much about trackday history... general consensus is that oft-tracked cars are BETTER maintained than ones that never see track use as the owners are usually genuine enthusiasts that are fastidious about making sure all the servicing is up to date before going anywhere near the track.
Go out, drive a few of each... you'll find what works best for you
>> Edited by Esprit on Thursday 18th May 06:40
Generally the S1 is a more "Raw" experience, the S2 sacrificing some of this for a bit more luxury/practicality.
I'd not say that an S1 is any more or less reliable than an S2 given similar mileage and service history. Mechanically they're similar.
Things that may swing it for you is the practicality stakes. S1s are noisier, rattlier and the roof is a pain in the ass compared to most convertibles whereas the (short roof) S2s are a LOT easier to put up/down. S1s are harder to get into and out of, by some margin and S2s generally come with Aircon (it's more common anyway). She S2 rides better than the S1 for a very minor handling compromise.
But either is a viable prospect, just make sure you get one that's been looked after. Don't worry too much about trackday history... general consensus is that oft-tracked cars are BETTER maintained than ones that never see track use as the owners are usually genuine enthusiasts that are fastidious about making sure all the servicing is up to date before going anywhere near the track.
Go out, drive a few of each... you'll find what works best for you
>> Edited by Esprit on Thursday 18th May 06:40
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