Decisions...Decisions

[mac1967]

ok guys heres the dilema...

I'm about to embark on my first Elise...whoowoooo!

I've been following the forums looking at cars for sale and generally trying my best to learn as much as I can and talk to people about the car before I buy.

BUT...My main concern is do I buy from a garage or private? The safe bet of course is to buy from a garage with the safety of garage conditions. Although from what I can see there are plenty of lovingly looked after cars for sale privately.

Now I'm no mechanic (which is the main issue here) and I've been trying to make up a checklist of things to look for if I do decide to visit a private sale. One probem being an inspection from i.e the RAC may not be valuable as they do not have specialist car experience? and depending on where I have to travel to view and the fact that there is not a specialist Lotus expert within 35 odd miles away from me dosen't make things any easier.

So what's the best way? Garage or private and do my best to evaluate the car myself?

By the way...I'm looking for 02 elise. Maybe a sports tourer or a type 23...depending on budget and luck.

Any advice helpful.

Thanks gents and gentesses.

Regards,

Mac



>> Edited by mac1967 on Monday 4th July 13:23

>> Edited by mac1967 on Monday 4th July 13:23

[S Works]

Personally I would either stick to a well known and well respected dealer or independent if I were buying trade, haggle to a good price and make sure I knew what any warranty would and would not cover, and also discuss with the salesman what would happen in the event that you found something that would need attention post-sale.

Anywhere worth their salt and reputation should do that as a matter of course.

My preference has always been to buy private and save money. So long as you do your homework and get the car checked over by a specialist (not the AA and RAC) you should be fine. For added peace of mind you can always buy private and buy an AA warranty if you like.

[steff]

If you want a bargain buy privately and if you're of a nervous disposition get a decent warranty.

Then get someone who knows something about elises to check it over.

I bought my Elise 5 years ago when it was 12 months old, 3500 miles and immaculate, I had a mechanic mate look over it a quick test drive and job done.

[mac1967]

Ahhhhh....but does it have to be someone who knows about Elises in particular or can it just be a "normal" mechanic (not meaning to put mechanics down in any way)?

Regards,

Mac

[gooby]

mac1967 said:

Ahhhhh....but does it have to be someone who knows about Elises in particular or can it just be a "normal" mechanic (not meaning to put mechanics down in any way)? Regards, Mac

A decent mechanic will be adequate, if you can find a specialist then even better. There are a few web sites that have a useful checklist of what to look for. Give this list to your mechanic and he is then an expert!

[garyDVO]

Paul Matty in Bromsgrove is well respected in the Lotus world. Always has an Elise ot 2 for sale.

Good luck. Remember buy with your head not heart.

Gary

[sneakypete]

Bought my 52 ST from Speedwell Automotive. He's an ex Lotus guy and really knows a good car. Give them a call. He's got loads of great cars and for sensible money.