Lotus Elise/Exige to classic 911?

[Sloch]

Have wanted a track/rally spec classic 911 (911 SC base, possibly a 964) for a good while now and am thinking of biting the bullet, replacing my modified Honda engined S1.

Has anyone had seat time in both that can chip in with a comparison?

Will I regret it?

Cheers.

[Biggles111]

I had a standard S1 about 12 years ago, and now have a 964. The Elise is obviously a lot newer, and with the conversion will be faster. However, the steering on the 964 even though assisted has nearly as much feel as the Elise, and the engine has a great soundtrack. It is a heavier car, but is like the Elise very compact, which makes it a pleasure to hustle down lanes. What does stand out is a much more solid feel, with fantastic durability, if you keep on top of general condition they should be good for decades more. Not the very fastest car out there, but one that rewards technique, like the Elise, and one of the most fun.

[jackal]

I have driven most of the key elise variants in the lifespan of the model including a Honda elise and 340r and also driven quite a few 911's and owned a few of each as well. I'm not sure what to say, you need to try things out for yourself. What I do think though is that there is a link between elise/caterham ownership and porsche 911's. It's mainly to do with the level of feel, feedback and involvement which both of the cars major in. If you were thinking of moving to say a Gallardo or a Audi RS4 it would set the alarm bells ringing but most people who appreciate the elise seem to love 911's too when they eventually get around to trying them. They are both effectively rear engined as well so share a basic dynamic disposition which for me, fundamentally underpins both cars longevity and huge fan base.

I would also say that on balance and as good as the elise is, a good 2 wheel drive 911 is more interesting and rewarding to drive. It is also metal, iconic, collectable and in the case of the older ones, built in the most unique way. I still do miss the elise's steering and damping sometimes though, that wonderfully intimate and gossamer way in which you interact with the controls, the endless featherweight fluidity on a twisty back road.

Edited by jackal on Saturday 24th August 10:34

[Sloch]

Thanks for the replies.

Was mainly interested in the level of steering feel and feedback in comparison with the S1. Completely sold on the rear engined character (and of course that noise!).

Hopefully a sub 1000kg 911SC with a similar power to weight won't have too much of a heavier feel.