Questions from a potential new s2 K-series owner
Discussion
Hi guys (+gals!),
I had to free up some money so just sold my lovely e46 M3.
Anyway, I want an S2 elise, so a few questions for you - sorry I know these are the 'standard' quesions, but I have done muchos searching and think that I may get some more info from making this post
I am looking at cheap S2 111s (I think) to be a daily driver (12K/annum). There are a few 111s around the 13K mark, with hardtops, and with around 60,000 miles.
From my research so long as the head gasket has been done, and suspension + brakes + tyres +steering all sensibly replaced as they fade, there is no reason not to jump into a higher milege car - is this correct?
Basically, I have an option of a normal S2 with around 40K miles which is mint, or trying to squeeze out for a 111s with 20K more miles. Am I correct to think that the 111s will probably be the better car, despite the mileage (so long as it's priced correctly the mileage shouldnt really matter I guess) - obviously more power etc...
Unfortunately getting an indy inspection on the one car im most interested in at the moment is a bit of a pain due to the location, I wonder how sensible I would be just giving the car a real good look over, using the buying guides as mentioned. Do people worry about compression tests and the like on these engines prior to purchase, or is it a case of if it works and doesnt smoke, game on!
Anyway, Hello guys, and any info is appreciated
Kindest,
Stu
I had to free up some money so just sold my lovely e46 M3.
Anyway, I want an S2 elise, so a few questions for you - sorry I know these are the 'standard' quesions, but I have done muchos searching and think that I may get some more info from making this post
I am looking at cheap S2 111s (I think) to be a daily driver (12K/annum). There are a few 111s around the 13K mark, with hardtops, and with around 60,000 miles.
From my research so long as the head gasket has been done, and suspension + brakes + tyres +steering all sensibly replaced as they fade, there is no reason not to jump into a higher milege car - is this correct?
Basically, I have an option of a normal S2 with around 40K miles which is mint, or trying to squeeze out for a 111s with 20K more miles. Am I correct to think that the 111s will probably be the better car, despite the mileage (so long as it's priced correctly the mileage shouldnt really matter I guess) - obviously more power etc...
Unfortunately getting an indy inspection on the one car im most interested in at the moment is a bit of a pain due to the location, I wonder how sensible I would be just giving the car a real good look over, using the buying guides as mentioned. Do people worry about compression tests and the like on these engines prior to purchase, or is it a case of if it works and doesnt smoke, game on!
Anyway, Hello guys, and any info is appreciated
Kindest,
Stu
You could get a decent S2 111s with lowish milage for around 13k private if you look carefully on the pistonheads classifieds. I'm contemplating selling mine in the next few months (if my bonus comes through so I can get an exige!!) for around 13-14k with 20k, FSH and hardtop for around 14.
Don't worry about hgf, take out AA breakdown cover for 60 quid a year which covers you upto the first 500 quids worth of damage.
Definitely go for 111s over standard one if possible.
Don't worry about hgf, take out AA breakdown cover for 60 quid a year which covers you upto the first 500 quids worth of damage.
Definitely go for 111s over standard one if possible.
I was asked a similar question by a friend about a year ago, and he did say he was glad he followed my advice, so...
I would stick with the cleanest standard car you can afford, if it's for driving daily. If you're going to track the car, it's probably different. You'll get more out of a driver training day, than the increase in bhp from a 111S on the road.
Also, if you get the car inspected, make sure they take the undertray off, or else you'd be just as well looking it over yourself.
I have a standard S1, and I now use it every day. It's pretty reliable. In three years the washwipe pump has let me down once (bad/dirty connection), and a wheel bearing has failed on the way to a service. Having said that, I'll now probably break down on the way home.
I would stick with the cleanest standard car you can afford, if it's for driving daily. If you're going to track the car, it's probably different. You'll get more out of a driver training day, than the increase in bhp from a 111S on the road.
Also, if you get the car inspected, make sure they take the undertray off, or else you'd be just as well looking it over yourself.
I have a standard S1, and I now use it every day. It's pretty reliable. In three years the washwipe pump has let me down once (bad/dirty connection), and a wheel bearing has failed on the way to a service. Having said that, I'll now probably break down on the way home.
OK guys, thanks to the both of you
I'm trying to be realistic about reliability here. If the car was off the road for 2+ weeks it would be a pain, but I'm happy with a day here or there that requires effort. The M3 let me down once or twice too, it's no massive problem for me not rocking up to work !!!
I agree that condition is paramount, it is probably the utmost thing I will take into account.
I've seen a lot of guides on the S1 Elise, do you know of any s2 specific guides guys?
I'd not worry about taking the rear tray off myself to have a looksy if its relatively easy to do (perhaps purched on a curb, or am I being fanciful!!)
Stu
I'm trying to be realistic about reliability here. If the car was off the road for 2+ weeks it would be a pain, but I'm happy with a day here or there that requires effort. The M3 let me down once or twice too, it's no massive problem for me not rocking up to work !!!
I agree that condition is paramount, it is probably the utmost thing I will take into account.
I've seen a lot of guides on the S1 Elise, do you know of any s2 specific guides guys?
I'd not worry about taking the rear tray off myself to have a looksy if its relatively easy to do (perhaps purched on a curb, or am I being fanciful!!)
Stu
Go for the 111s. I've got an s2 standard k series with around 40k, which I have to confess was an impulse buy at the time, but now I'm more informed and up to speed, I cant help wishing I'd searched around more and got a 111s (or even 111r if budgets permitted) (Lets not start another s versus r debate which has been done to death on other threads).
Still a generally reliable day to day car, and still over the moon with it, so whichever you go for will be a treat, but if you've got the choice, I'd suggest 111s.
Enjoy.
HTH
Still a generally reliable day to day car, and still over the moon with it, so whichever you go for will be a treat, but if you've got the choice, I'd suggest 111s.
Enjoy.
HTH
There's loads of info in the sticky "Buyers Guide".
I found http://www.elises.co.uk/ useful before I bought mine. It does have pointers to look out for on an S2.
You could probably remove the undertray if you're parked up on a kerb, but I'm not sure I would want to do it to someone else's car...
I found http://www.elises.co.uk/ useful before I bought mine. It does have pointers to look out for on an S2.
You could probably remove the undertray if you're parked up on a kerb, but I'm not sure I would want to do it to someone else's car...
Whygee,
I suspect that is how I would feel too. If I have a choice of a nice lower mileage S2, vs. a higher mileage newer 111s (as I Do), I cant help but think the 111s is more sensible.
Red,
Sure, I've studied elises.co.uk, and many other sites. Obviously I looked at the buyers guide at the top of this forum, and then looked at those links, and I'm definitely building up a much bigger picture of these cars. Just wondering if there are any other pearls of wisdom from anyone here really!!
My plan had been to check all service history (also to try calling the garage that did the HGF work to see if they have record etc..) HPI / bodywork/ fluids (esp. for potential HGF again) / electrical operation/ handling/ gearbox (ive seen to try reverse->1st a few times to listen for a weird whine).
It sounds like it would be a good idea to try to have a look at the topside of the undertray to look for any fluid leaks. Maybe I could manage with a torch and some patience from above?
Is it possible to check the front rad hoses for leaks without removing the clam?
I also read in another thread somewhere about someone speaking about looking at his coolant level move as he revved it, and this was a sign of trapped air etc.... so ideally if I get the owner to rev it with the boot open i shouldnt see any significant fluid rise/fall, which would be a good thing?
Thanks guys, I'm getting quite excited at the prospect of one of these!
Stu
I suspect that is how I would feel too. If I have a choice of a nice lower mileage S2, vs. a higher mileage newer 111s (as I Do), I cant help but think the 111s is more sensible.
Red,
Sure, I've studied elises.co.uk, and many other sites. Obviously I looked at the buyers guide at the top of this forum, and then looked at those links, and I'm definitely building up a much bigger picture of these cars. Just wondering if there are any other pearls of wisdom from anyone here really!!
My plan had been to check all service history (also to try calling the garage that did the HGF work to see if they have record etc..) HPI / bodywork/ fluids (esp. for potential HGF again) / electrical operation/ handling/ gearbox (ive seen to try reverse->1st a few times to listen for a weird whine).
It sounds like it would be a good idea to try to have a look at the topside of the undertray to look for any fluid leaks. Maybe I could manage with a torch and some patience from above?
Is it possible to check the front rad hoses for leaks without removing the clam?
I also read in another thread somewhere about someone speaking about looking at his coolant level move as he revved it, and this was a sign of trapped air etc.... so ideally if I get the owner to rev it with the boot open i shouldnt see any significant fluid rise/fall, which would be a good thing?
Thanks guys, I'm getting quite excited at the prospect of one of these!
Stu
redIX said:
I was asked a similar question by a friend about a year ago, and he did say he was glad he followed my advice, so...
I would stick with the cleanest standard car you can afford, if it's for driving daily. If you're going to track the car, it's probably different. You'll get more out of a driver training day, than the increase in bhp from a 111S on the road.
Also, if you get the car inspected, make sure they take the undertray off, or else you'd be just as well looking it over yourself.
I have a standard S1, and I now use it every day. It's pretty reliable. In three years the washwipe pump has let me down once (bad/dirty connection), and a wheel bearing has failed on the way to a service. Having said that, I'll now probably break down on the way home.
Isn't choosing the S2 111S over the standard car more about road comforts and driveability than performance? The whole point of the car was that it had extra sound deadening, carpets, full trim etc. The flat torque curve of the VVC engine is just a further road biased facet of the car, as it makes the car more suitable for everyday road use.I would stick with the cleanest standard car you can afford, if it's for driving daily. If you're going to track the car, it's probably different. You'll get more out of a driver training day, than the increase in bhp from a 111S on the road.
Also, if you get the car inspected, make sure they take the undertray off, or else you'd be just as well looking it over yourself.
I have a standard S1, and I now use it every day. It's pretty reliable. In three years the washwipe pump has let me down once (bad/dirty connection), and a wheel bearing has failed on the way to a service. Having said that, I'll now probably break down on the way home.
I understand the 111s has 160 hp, vs around 120 for the standard S2. Also, the 111s actually achieves better fuel economy too, which I dont understand.
I have one car in mind that will be due an A soon, but then the next is A, then B - so I'd be jumping in at a nice point in the servicing train!
Thanks guys
I have one car in mind that will be due an A soon, but then the next is A, then B - so I'd be jumping in at a nice point in the servicing train!
Thanks guys
stuthemong said:
I understand the 111s has 160 hp, vs around 120 for the standard S2. Also, the 111s actually achieves better fuel economy too, which I dont understand.
VVC engine - it's always cammed for optimum efficiency. I've got a 111S and a friend had a standard K series Elise and I can vouch for this. I'm getting around 40-45mpg everyday (I live amidst a network of B roads!), and can push up beyond 50mpg on long runs. On track I get about 30mpg I think.Dont rule out S2 with factory 135 upgrade I ran one of these daily for a year with no problems whatsoever. They are just as quick in the real world as a 111s and have a bit more pull at lower revs. I sold my 51 plate in aug for similar money you are looking to pay and would definately have another one when circumstances allow.
They are pretty basic cars when it comes down to it and I would definately buy private next time as most owners look after their cars and would invest in the AA warranty at £65 ( i think) which will cover most issues on a K engine
HTH
Simon
They are pretty basic cars when it comes down to it and I would definately buy private next time as most owners look after their cars and would invest in the AA warranty at £65 ( i think) which will cover most issues on a K engine
HTH
Simon
siwil1 said:
Dont rule out S2 with factory 135 upgrade I ran one of these daily for a year with no problems whatsoever. They are just as quick in the real world as a 111s and have a bit more pull at lower revs. I sold my 51 plate in aug for similar money you are looking to pay and would definately have another one when circumstances allow.
They are pretty basic cars when it comes down to it and I would definately buy private next time as most owners look after their cars and would invest in the AA warranty at £65 ( i think) which will cover most issues on a K engine
HTH
Simon
What does the 135 upgrade consist of, and how much, if you dont mind me asking?They are pretty basic cars when it comes down to it and I would definately buy private next time as most owners look after their cars and would invest in the AA warranty at £65 ( i think) which will cover most issues on a K engine
HTH
Simon
The 135 was a factory fit option which I believe cost approx £2k, It involved a sports exhaust, a reworked cylinder head and a few other bits which not being the most mechanically minded cannot remember!
Evo magazine said it was the best Elise they had driven, maybe different now.
I test drove std cars 111s and a 135 I bot the 135 as it "felt" quicker lower in the rev range Mine was a sports tourer which meant it came with leather faced seats, 4 alpine speakers and carpets! but I'm not sure if they all came with this. It didnt have aircon which initially I missed but its not as essential in an Elise as an Exige.
I think there is more detail on Elises.com re the 135 upgrade and I'm sure a quick search would find a bit more.
The more I'm typing this the more I'm missing it.
ps whatever you buy you will love it especially when you put the Hurricane on it!
Evo magazine said it was the best Elise they had driven, maybe different now.
I test drove std cars 111s and a 135 I bot the 135 as it "felt" quicker lower in the rev range Mine was a sports tourer which meant it came with leather faced seats, 4 alpine speakers and carpets! but I'm not sure if they all came with this. It didnt have aircon which initially I missed but its not as essential in an Elise as an Exige.
I think there is more detail on Elises.com re the 135 upgrade and I'm sure a quick search would find a bit more.
The more I'm typing this the more I'm missing it.
ps whatever you buy you will love it especially when you put the Hurricane on it!
Don't forget that if it's a daily driver you might welcome the comforts and sound deadening of the 111S. That's what I bought mine for. Having said that, I think any S2 is ok for everyday use, it's just that for all year round use on motorways and everything, my vote would be for the 111S.
whygee02 said:
Thanks for that, I've got the same k series sports tourer, and am debating upgrade the current car or trade it, probably for a 111s
I would look at upgrading if you are happy with the overall condition of your car and know its history. To upgrade a k series look in the sticky I think its dvapower who are the K series tuning guru's
OK guys great, thanks for the info. If all goes to plan, I will soon be another amongst you!
Today I have agreed a deal on a 52 plate 111s with 60K on the clock (short tail version).
-It's had new rear shocks and ball joints 8 months ago.
-HGF corrected 6 months ago, and I have talked to the mechanic that did this work on phone - all belts replaced at this time!!!!
- Hurricane induction + Janspeed 4-2-1 manifold
- Hard + soft top
- Good tyres
- Ally hubbed disks (I understand this means disk replacement is cheaper from eliseparts)
- 12 months MOT
Um, I Think that is it.
It will go for a pre-sale inspection with the guy who did the HGF work (Scottish Lotus Specialist (SLS)), he said he'll take it out to road test, take tray off to inspect for leaks etc.. do all that sort of 'stuff' - which is good for my peace of mind as he will obviously know these things better than me!
So I think that is all the good things. The bad thing is it failed the HPI test today with outstanding finance and mileage discrepencies. The finance the seller was shocked about and we are going to get to the bottom of that tomorrow hopefully. The mileage was a little weird, but it looks like an input error from a dealer. I'll study recepits+service booklet to piece that together, but I think this isn't the biggest issue really. I have the phone number of the National Mileage Register to have a chat tomorrow!
I must say RAC HPI check @ £5 is stupid value for money, they spent a good 10 mins with me telling me about the plate changes (private plate), mileage, notified all details of finance, including phone number and their ref number of loan to help me sort that out, they also offer a £5K insurance in case the car turns out bent as bananna if I have given all the details they need to know!
I think that when I Get the car I will try to get the PRT mod carried out as I think it seems to make good sense - anyone got comments on this?
One last, anyone know any good independant garages in Cambridge/Huntingdon area as it will need an A service in 2K miles?
So lets hope this finance discrepency can be sorted, then game on. Elise for meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!
Today I have agreed a deal on a 52 plate 111s with 60K on the clock (short tail version).
-It's had new rear shocks and ball joints 8 months ago.
-HGF corrected 6 months ago, and I have talked to the mechanic that did this work on phone - all belts replaced at this time!!!!
- Hurricane induction + Janspeed 4-2-1 manifold
- Hard + soft top
- Good tyres
- Ally hubbed disks (I understand this means disk replacement is cheaper from eliseparts)
- 12 months MOT
Um, I Think that is it.
It will go for a pre-sale inspection with the guy who did the HGF work (Scottish Lotus Specialist (SLS)), he said he'll take it out to road test, take tray off to inspect for leaks etc.. do all that sort of 'stuff' - which is good for my peace of mind as he will obviously know these things better than me!
So I think that is all the good things. The bad thing is it failed the HPI test today with outstanding finance and mileage discrepencies. The finance the seller was shocked about and we are going to get to the bottom of that tomorrow hopefully. The mileage was a little weird, but it looks like an input error from a dealer. I'll study recepits+service booklet to piece that together, but I think this isn't the biggest issue really. I have the phone number of the National Mileage Register to have a chat tomorrow!
I must say RAC HPI check @ £5 is stupid value for money, they spent a good 10 mins with me telling me about the plate changes (private plate), mileage, notified all details of finance, including phone number and their ref number of loan to help me sort that out, they also offer a £5K insurance in case the car turns out bent as bananna if I have given all the details they need to know!
I think that when I Get the car I will try to get the PRT mod carried out as I think it seems to make good sense - anyone got comments on this?
One last, anyone know any good independant garages in Cambridge/Huntingdon area as it will need an A service in 2K miles?
So lets hope this finance discrepency can be sorted, then game on. Elise for meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!
stuthemong said:
It will go for a pre-sale inspection with the guy who did the HGF work (Scottish Lotus Specialist (SLS)), he said he'll take it out to road test, take tray off to inspect for leaks etc.. do all that sort of 'stuff' - which is good for my peace of mind as he will obviously know these things better than me!
If that is 'Ali' then he's ex-Murray/Lotus and has a very good rep amongst the Jockanese Lotus guys. He certainly knows what he's on about.Gassing Station | Elise/Exige/Europa/340R | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff