Best Secondhand Lotus

[clanger]

This month's Car Magazine has an article on page 164 on best 2nd hand Lotus to buy. Barry Ely, Lotus used car 'expert' of longstanding's list is:
1. Lotus Exige
2. M100SE
3. S1 Elise
4. Esprit S4S
5. Late Excel

Whilst I reckon Barry's choice is impeccable - owning models of 1 and 2 of his list - what do others reckon?

[Elanbloke]

I can only speak for the M100SE (and S2) which have been my choice up to now. You can certainly pick up a good M100SE for £8K to £9K these days which can't be bad value for a quick, practical (daily driver), and reasonably rare soft top sports car. I still fancy choices 1, 3 & 4 as well, just a bit nervous about the possible cost of maintaining an Esprit (if anything serious went - engine wise).

[NLJdH]

Wouldn't trust Barry as far as I could throw him.

Regards,
Nicholas

[dictys]

NLJdH said: Wouldn't trust Barry as far as I could throw him.

Nicholas,

Could you throw some light on the above? I've been looking at some of cars they have for sale. Email me offline would be best.