lotus elan

[paulsmith]

hi all,

Please could someone let me know what engine sizes the Lotus Elan has, also the Turbo and how quick they are?
If i was to buy one,,,what should i look for?,,,it seems you can get them pretty cheap £7,000 upwards...?
How reliable are they?
Many Thanks

Paul

[JonRB]

Hi Paul

Why the "" icon?

The M100 Elan (ie. the 90's Elan, which I assume you're referring to) is 1588cc. Their quoted 0-60 is 6.7s, but their handling makes up for this, turning them into a very effective point-to-point car.

They're great little cars.

Rather than writing you a buyers guide, can I suggest a visit to www.lotuselancentral.com as there is plenty of info over there (although a little US-biased)

Feel free to ask any additional questions not covered in their FAQs and Buyers Guide - there are several Elan owners on PH.

Regards
Jon

>> Edited by JonRB on Monday 21st June 12:29

[paulsmith]

Many Thanks Jon, thats helpful,,,,ill have a read through,,,!

[mustard]

US based? its pretty international but a good 50%+ of people on there are UK based.

Ref Reliabilty. Most Lotus Dealers/Specialist reakon the Elan is the most reliable car Lotus have ever made, your budget of £7k is going to buy you a car with a few miles on it probably around 80,000, but dont let that put you off.

Buy one with a good service history and plenty of bills (paying particular attention to a few items list on the lotuselancentral.com buying guide)

As JonRB said pop on you'll find us all most helpful

[vangogh]

Hi Paul
My M100 has done 94k no problems. Engine should be good for 150k if serviced. Check for cam belt change at around 60k. Superb handling.
Tony

[Elanbloke]

Make sure you go for a Turbo version (SE)!

[JonRB]

Elanbloke said:

Make sure you go for a Turbo version (SE)!

Absolutely! I find the SE Turbo barely fast enough as it is. I can't imagine how a N/A would feel (and don't particularly want to).

(Yes, I know I can tune it up, but it is my wife's car and she's happy with it as it is)