The Evora may share the same bonded aluminium technology as the Elise and Exige, but its VVA (Versatile Vehicle Architecture) differs in comprising three sections rather than one single unit. This has clear benefits for repairing crash damage but with no loss of rigidity. The VVA has a central tub with front and rear subframes attached.
This will get through Eagle F1s a bit quicker!
At each corner, the Evora has double wishbone suspension with the arms made from forged aluminium to help reduce unsprung weight. Eibach springs work with Bilstein dampers while the brake discs, calipers and pads are from AP Racing. Replacement pads are pricey at more than £200 for a set of original pads for the front brakes and the same again for the rears.
All Evoras have four-piston calipers, but you have to choose a Sport Pack model to gain the cross-drilled discs. This is identified by the calipers being painted black on earlier models and red on 2012-on cars, though black was an option for later cars at no extra cost. Discs are 350mm front and 332mm at the back.
The Evora has rack and pinion steering with 2.8 turns from lock to lock. As standard, the Evora has 18-inch front alloy wheels and 19-inch rear wheels, while the S gained Stealth Grey Classic design wheels. To these wheels were fitted 225/40 ZR18 front and 255/35 ZR19 tyres. Owners now recommend original equipment Pirelli P Zero or Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric rubber.
Sport Pack brings cross-drilled discs
Some owners point out the Pirelli tyres give good grip but wear out more quickly than other brands, meaning a useful life of around 10,000 miles for a set of Pirellis and 12,000 to 15,000 miles for other makes. If the car has the larger optional wheels, with 19-inch front and 20-inch rear rims, the original Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres are even more expensive.
When looking at any Evora to buy, study the tyres closely. Uneven tyre wear or a car that doesn't feel spot on when driving may indicate poorly repaired crash damage or, more likely, wheels that have been kerbed and knocked the suspension out of true. Front tyres are around £100 each, with rears at about £200 apiece.
PHer's view:
"My priorities for a day to day car are maybe not the same as most people. It needed to be reasonably comfortable and practical for commuting, business trips to the airport and so on, but most of all I wanted something that lifts your spirits and the Evora does that every time. In my opinion the steering feel, ride and handling is sublime and unmatched by anything in any segment. I don't do many miles but they are good ones!"
Ali Crozier
Buying Guide Contents:
Introduction
Powertrain
Rolling Chassis
Body
Interior
