Exige vs Exige S
Discussion
First of all, greetings all!
My first post, even though I've followed these forums for a couple of years now.
Reason for this post:
I was talking to a very experienced lotus mechanic (owns a rather well known garage) today about my interest on buying an S2 Exige S. I can probably afford a used, low mileage one, and I like everything about it, so it seemed like the obvious choice.
However, he mentioned there have been numerous problems with the exige s's he deals with, specifically with the supercharger parts of them, and he suggested I'd be better off looking at a n/a exige instead.
He said everything about the car is quite reliable, apart from whatever has to do with the supercharger. Now, I trust this guy, he's been in the business for 30 years now, so I believe he knows what he's talking about.
But I wanted to hear from owners, to make sure. Do you have mechanical problems with your exige s?
Should I look into a n/a instead?
The main reason for preferring the supercharged version (other than the obvious increase in power and the styling) is the fact that, due to the low rev torque it offers compared to the n/a version, i think it would make it more driveable in every day use. I'm not tracking my cars, so driveability is a major issue for me. I'd be happy to shift less when I wanna do a relaxed driving.
Also, all option packs equal (ie Touring, super touring and sports packs, which I would like to have), does the s have anything else I'd be missing on the n/a car? As in, stuff that comes standard on the S, but you have to buy as an option for the n/a?
Any help would be much appreciated.
Cheers
My first post, even though I've followed these forums for a couple of years now.
Reason for this post:
I was talking to a very experienced lotus mechanic (owns a rather well known garage) today about my interest on buying an S2 Exige S. I can probably afford a used, low mileage one, and I like everything about it, so it seemed like the obvious choice.
However, he mentioned there have been numerous problems with the exige s's he deals with, specifically with the supercharger parts of them, and he suggested I'd be better off looking at a n/a exige instead.
He said everything about the car is quite reliable, apart from whatever has to do with the supercharger. Now, I trust this guy, he's been in the business for 30 years now, so I believe he knows what he's talking about.
But I wanted to hear from owners, to make sure. Do you have mechanical problems with your exige s?
Should I look into a n/a instead?
The main reason for preferring the supercharged version (other than the obvious increase in power and the styling) is the fact that, due to the low rev torque it offers compared to the n/a version, i think it would make it more driveable in every day use. I'm not tracking my cars, so driveability is a major issue for me. I'd be happy to shift less when I wanna do a relaxed driving.
Also, all option packs equal (ie Touring, super touring and sports packs, which I would like to have), does the s have anything else I'd be missing on the n/a car? As in, stuff that comes standard on the S, but you have to buy as an option for the n/a?
Any help would be much appreciated.
Cheers
I have a n/a s.2 Exige.
While it's absolutely true that the real magic happens high up in the rev band when the 2nd cam engages, it's not the case that the car isn't plenty driveable below that.
On the public road I drive (briskly!) everywhere on the first cam, motorway slip roads aside. The car is responsive and has plenty of go. I save the 2nd cam for track - because it's challenging to play with it on public roads without endangering your license.
I'm considering aftermarket s/c options, it must be said, but not for everyday driveability - just for more track oomph.
Tol
While it's absolutely true that the real magic happens high up in the rev band when the 2nd cam engages, it's not the case that the car isn't plenty driveable below that.
On the public road I drive (briskly!) everywhere on the first cam, motorway slip roads aside. The car is responsive and has plenty of go. I save the 2nd cam for track - because it's challenging to play with it on public roads without endangering your license.
I'm considering aftermarket s/c options, it must be said, but not for everyday driveability - just for more track oomph.
Tol
Have had 2 standard Exige S's and have just changed to an Exige S PP. Although I had a few electrical problems (ECU and main engine wiring harness) I have not had any problems with the supercharger although both cars only covered about 6000 miles each and while I never tracked them I am currently living in Germany and have spent long periods at highish speeds and engine revs. As for which is best for you I would test drive both as I have also owned 2 111R's (same engine as the N/A exige) and while I really enjoyed them both (the kick at 6000 rpm is addictive) I would be reluctant to go back to the N/A car. I haven't tried the N/A car that has had the ECU upgrade, that drops the cam change over point, so you may also want to try a car that has had this done.
I have an 06 Exige S, as does a friend of mine. Both of us have had numerous electrical faults, an oil leak, and problems with the throttle (fly by wire).
Neither of us has ever had any supercharger related problems what-so-ever. And his does nothing but track mileage.
Sorry to be the bearer of bad (or good??!
) news, but simply put I would not, in a million years, NOT choose an S because of the supercharger
Hope that helps
Tony
Neither of us has ever had any supercharger related problems what-so-ever. And his does nothing but track mileage.
Sorry to be the bearer of bad (or good??!
) news, but simply put I would not, in a million years, NOT choose an S because of the superchargerHope that helps
Tony
The only problem's ive had with my S in 1 year and 13K are:
Indicator refused to cancel. only happened once, a quick stop turn off and restart solved it.
Speedo decided to bounce round to 130 mph when I was doing no more than 50. Again only done it once.
finally the biggest problem....
I cant stop driving the bloody thing.
Indicator refused to cancel. only happened once, a quick stop turn off and restart solved it.
Speedo decided to bounce round to 130 mph when I was doing no more than 50. Again only done it once.
finally the biggest problem....
I cant stop driving the bloody thing.
SeanyD said:
purdy84 said:
Speedo decided to bounce round to 130 mph when I was doing no more than 50. Again only done it once.
I believe the speedo bouncing round is normal, ECU resetting, or something along those lines. My Elise does it too from time to time.No doubt the ECU was thinking who's this lead footed b
d...I better re-set myself and release a few more horses...No idea on problems but the main difference I noticed on the S over my standard Exige was the extra power at higher speeds.
In n/a Exige the accelaration tailed off dramatically when you changed into 5th gear but on the S it kept pulling just as strong as in the first 4 gears.
Didnt have a massive amount of time in the S though.
In n/a Exige the accelaration tailed off dramatically when you changed into 5th gear but on the S it kept pulling just as strong as in the first 4 gears.
Didnt have a massive amount of time in the S though.
zasker said:
Have had 2 standard Exige S's and have just changed to an Exige S PP. Although I had a few electrical problems (ECU and main engine wiring harness) I have not had any problems with the supercharger although both cars only covered about 6000 miles each and while I never tracked them I am currently living in Germany and have spent long periods at highish speeds and engine revs. As for which is best for you I would test drive both as I have also owned 2 111R's (same engine as the N/A exige) and while I really enjoyed them both (the kick at 6000 rpm is addictive) I would be reluctant to go back to the N/A car. I haven't tried the N/A car that has had the ECU upgrade, that drops the cam change over point, so you may also want to try a car that has had this done.
If you don't mind me asking, how does the PP compare to the standard S? I know it's got more power and is faster and has better brakes. But how does it feel? Does it pull better low down? Is it tiring to drive? did you think "wow!" when you drove it for the first time?Edited by VladTheDad on Thursday 2nd October 13:23
Mclovin said:
just make sure it has aircon..sport park -proper seats..electric windows -lighter than manual..and you cant go wrong..
beware of touring pack pointless in car like the exige..if you want touring pack look for a elise speed racer or 111r..
As far as options go, I really need the following:beware of touring pack pointless in car like the exige..if you want touring pack look for a elise speed racer or 111r..
Air con - I live in Greece, enough said.
Switchable traction control - not sure what year this became available for the exige
Air bags - I had a head on collision in my Boxster S 3 weeks ago (reason Im considering the Exige). Some drunken woman lost control, beelined me and destroyed my car. I came out unscratched. So safety is important to me
ABS - I believe that's standard equipment for the exige.
Upgraded dashboard/steering wheel - I think that's part of the super touring/air bag thingy
Electric windows
Probax seats
That's pretty much what I can't do without. Forged wheels, adjustable suspension etc are welcome, but not deal breakers.
That said, what option packages do I need? I ran into a place where it explained what each package includes, but I forgot to bookmark it!
EDIT: I disagree with people thinking "if you're not gonna track the car, get an elise instead, don't bother with luxuries in this car". I like the exige looks more and the power is really addictive, so I want to have a really really fast car for road use, even if the base model is already quite fast. I'm not a mindless kid that wants to race in public roads, I just wanna know i have the power right there when/if I need it.
Also, it's gonna be my only car, so luxuries included in the touring package would actually be useful to me.
Cheers.
Edited by Xendric on Thursday 2nd October 13:41
I have had three Exiges an NA then an S then an S240 , it has to be an S mate !
i have never had any problems with the cars (nothing) over six years of lotus cars three Exiges and one Elise , strange because a Honda that i had previous was loads of trouble from new .
The superchargers on both the S cars have been fine and felt better the more the car was used .
Think the only person that will tell you to buy a NA Exige over an S is someone with one for Sale
i have never had any problems with the cars (nothing) over six years of lotus cars three Exiges and one Elise , strange because a Honda that i had previous was loads of trouble from new .
The superchargers on both the S cars have been fine and felt better the more the car was used .
Think the only person that will tell you to buy a NA Exige over an S is someone with one for Sale
Got to be an S.
I had an n/a for 7000 miles, now done 6000 in my new S PP. No problems with either car apart from dodgy thermostat on S which dealer fixed at run-in service. Only problem with SC is the noise which ain't pretty but does make it sound a bit like a Gran Turismo 4 race car.
Otherwise, S is far nicer to drive, lots of power from mid range up, much easier to drive on track as you don't have to rag the engine to within an inch of its life to stay on power band. The n/a power step is interesting party trick but totally pointless on track, I got the reflash which made it better, but car still lacked grunt in the 5000-6000 range.
Can't comment on difference in power between S and S PP as I haven't driven regular S. PP brakes are great however, vast improvement on n/a which I think are same as std S.
I had an n/a for 7000 miles, now done 6000 in my new S PP. No problems with either car apart from dodgy thermostat on S which dealer fixed at run-in service. Only problem with SC is the noise which ain't pretty but does make it sound a bit like a Gran Turismo 4 race car.
Otherwise, S is far nicer to drive, lots of power from mid range up, much easier to drive on track as you don't have to rag the engine to within an inch of its life to stay on power band. The n/a power step is interesting party trick but totally pointless on track, I got the reflash which made it better, but car still lacked grunt in the 5000-6000 range.
Can't comment on difference in power between S and S PP as I haven't driven regular S. PP brakes are great however, vast improvement on n/a which I think are same as std S.
I have an S with SP and PP.
I love the car and would say it's worth the extra to get the better brakes.
However I'm already missing the grunt of my previous cars (F430, Noble M400) I was hoping that someone may start converting S2's to Honda S/C but if that doesen't happen soon I'm going to get an S1 with Honda conversion in the spring.
F.C.
By the way the power step thing on a n/a exige is not a desirable trait, (though to some exiting) power (especially on track) should be as strong and linear as possible thus not breaking traction with sudden power steps etc,
I love the car and would say it's worth the extra to get the better brakes.
However I'm already missing the grunt of my previous cars (F430, Noble M400) I was hoping that someone may start converting S2's to Honda S/C but if that doesen't happen soon I'm going to get an S1 with Honda conversion in the spring.
F.C.
By the way the power step thing on a n/a exige is not a desirable trait, (though to some exiting) power (especially on track) should be as strong and linear as possible thus not breaking traction with sudden power steps etc,
Edited by F.C. on Friday 3rd October 16:21
VladTheDad said:
zasker said:
Have had 2 standard Exige S's and have just changed to an Exige S PP. Although I had a few electrical problems (ECU and main engine wiring harness) I have not had any problems with the supercharger although both cars only covered about 6000 miles each and while I never tracked them I am currently living in Germany and have spent long periods at highish speeds and engine revs. As for which is best for you I would test drive both as I have also owned 2 111R's (same engine as the N/A exige) and while I really enjoyed them both (the kick at 6000 rpm is addictive) I would be reluctant to go back to the N/A car. I haven't tried the N/A car that has had the ECU upgrade, that drops the cam change over point, so you may also want to try a car that has had this done.
If you don't mind me asking, how does the PP compare to the standard S? I know it's got more power and is faster and has better brakes. But how does it feel? Does it pull better low down? Is it tiring to drive? did you think "wow!" when you drove it for the first time?Edited by VladTheDad on Thursday 2nd October 13:23
Xendric said:
First of all, greetings all!
My first post, even though I've followed these forums for a couple of years now.
Reason for this post:
I was talking to a very experienced lotus mechanic (owns a rather well known garage) today about my interest on buying an S2 Exige S. I can probably afford a used, low mileage one, and I like everything about it, so it seemed like the obvious choice.
However, he mentioned there have been numerous problems with the exige s's he deals with, specifically with the supercharger parts of them, and he suggested I'd be better off looking at a n/a exige instead.
He said everything about the car is quite reliable, apart from whatever has to do with the supercharger. Now, I trust this guy, he's been in the business for 30 years now, so I believe he knows what he's talking about.
But I wanted to hear from owners, to make sure. Do you have mechanical problems with your exige s?
Should I look into a n/a instead?
The main reason for preferring the supercharged version (other than the obvious increase in power and the styling) is the fact that, due to the low rev torque it offers compared to the n/a version, i think it would make it more driveable in every day use. I'm not tracking my cars, so driveability is a major issue for me. I'd be happy to shift less when I wanna do a relaxed driving.
Also, all option packs equal (ie Touring, super touring and sports packs, which I would like to have), does the s have anything else I'd be missing on the n/a car? As in, stuff that comes standard on the S, but you have to buy as an option for the n/a?
Any help would be much appreciated.
Cheers
Hmmm.... I can't help thinking that, given everything you've written in this post, you should be looking seriously at a Europa... obviously if the looks don't appeal then that knocks it on the head, but before you make that call, I strongly recommend you see one in the flesh and, ideally, drive an upgraded (225bhp) car to see how you get on with it. These cars make fantastic daily drivers, and come with all the extras (and the power) you are looking for in the Exige S.My first post, even though I've followed these forums for a couple of years now.
Reason for this post:
I was talking to a very experienced lotus mechanic (owns a rather well known garage) today about my interest on buying an S2 Exige S. I can probably afford a used, low mileage one, and I like everything about it, so it seemed like the obvious choice.
However, he mentioned there have been numerous problems with the exige s's he deals with, specifically with the supercharger parts of them, and he suggested I'd be better off looking at a n/a exige instead.
He said everything about the car is quite reliable, apart from whatever has to do with the supercharger. Now, I trust this guy, he's been in the business for 30 years now, so I believe he knows what he's talking about.
But I wanted to hear from owners, to make sure. Do you have mechanical problems with your exige s?
Should I look into a n/a instead?
The main reason for preferring the supercharged version (other than the obvious increase in power and the styling) is the fact that, due to the low rev torque it offers compared to the n/a version, i think it would make it more driveable in every day use. I'm not tracking my cars, so driveability is a major issue for me. I'd be happy to shift less when I wanna do a relaxed driving.
Also, all option packs equal (ie Touring, super touring and sports packs, which I would like to have), does the s have anything else I'd be missing on the n/a car? As in, stuff that comes standard on the S, but you have to buy as an option for the n/a?
Any help would be much appreciated.
Cheers
Cheers
Jerry
jerrytlr said:
Xendric said:
First of all, greetings all!
My first post, even though I've followed these forums for a couple of years now.
Reason for this post:
I was talking to a very experienced lotus mechanic (owns a rather well known garage) today about my interest on buying an S2 Exige S. I can probably afford a used, low mileage one, and I like everything about it, so it seemed like the obvious choice.
However, he mentioned there have been numerous problems with the exige s's he deals with, specifically with the supercharger parts of them, and he suggested I'd be better off looking at a n/a exige instead.
He said everything about the car is quite reliable, apart from whatever has to do with the supercharger. Now, I trust this guy, he's been in the business for 30 years now, so I believe he knows what he's talking about.
But I wanted to hear from owners, to make sure. Do you have mechanical problems with your exige s?
Should I look into a n/a instead?
The main reason for preferring the supercharged version (other than the obvious increase in power and the styling) is the fact that, due to the low rev torque it offers compared to the n/a version, i think it would make it more driveable in every day use. I'm not tracking my cars, so driveability is a major issue for me. I'd be happy to shift less when I wanna do a relaxed driving.
Also, all option packs equal (ie Touring, super touring and sports packs, which I would like to have), does the s have anything else I'd be missing on the n/a car? As in, stuff that comes standard on the S, but you have to buy as an option for the n/a?
Any help would be much appreciated.
Cheers
Hmmm.... I can't help thinking that, given everything you've written in this post, you should be looking seriously at a Europa... obviously if the looks don't appeal then that knocks it on the head, but before you make that call, I strongly recommend you see one in the flesh and, ideally, drive an upgraded (225bhp) car to see how you get on with it. These cars make fantastic daily drivers, and come with all the extras (and the power) you are looking for in the Exige S.My first post, even though I've followed these forums for a couple of years now.
Reason for this post:
I was talking to a very experienced lotus mechanic (owns a rather well known garage) today about my interest on buying an S2 Exige S. I can probably afford a used, low mileage one, and I like everything about it, so it seemed like the obvious choice.
However, he mentioned there have been numerous problems with the exige s's he deals with, specifically with the supercharger parts of them, and he suggested I'd be better off looking at a n/a exige instead.
He said everything about the car is quite reliable, apart from whatever has to do with the supercharger. Now, I trust this guy, he's been in the business for 30 years now, so I believe he knows what he's talking about.
But I wanted to hear from owners, to make sure. Do you have mechanical problems with your exige s?
Should I look into a n/a instead?
The main reason for preferring the supercharged version (other than the obvious increase in power and the styling) is the fact that, due to the low rev torque it offers compared to the n/a version, i think it would make it more driveable in every day use. I'm not tracking my cars, so driveability is a major issue for me. I'd be happy to shift less when I wanna do a relaxed driving.
Also, all option packs equal (ie Touring, super touring and sports packs, which I would like to have), does the s have anything else I'd be missing on the n/a car? As in, stuff that comes standard on the S, but you have to buy as an option for the n/a?
Any help would be much appreciated.
Cheers
Cheers
Jerry
F.C.
Gassing Station | Elise/Exige/Europa/340R | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff