Repairing an Elise

[markizok]

Hi guys

I have seen a car in the for sale section, a red elise.

I am contemplating buying it to repair, i just wondered if anyone can give me an idea of the potential cost - i know it will depend on the damage, i just want to work out if there will be much of a saving over buying a straight car.

None of the work will be done by me, i will have to find a decent bodywork specialist (any help would be appreciated!)

Thanks
Mark

[gooby]

Do you have a link to the car / advert. We would need to know the model, age, milage, and the damage done in order to help you.

Generally to be economically viable, you would have to do the work yourself unless you want a "project car"

[markizok]

www.askrestorations.co.uk/Elise.htm

Thanks
Mark

[cuzza]

"Low speed (40mph) accident with a tree"

I'd be very surprised if there's no chassis damage after that and particularly seeing as it hit a corner.

Depends on how cheap it is but even once you've fixed it up it's a CAT something and the value will nowhere near that of a straight car.

I wouldn't bother but if you have lots of cash and spare time knock yourself out.

How much is it?

[waspygill]

Hi Mark

As Gooby says It's dificult to comment without seeing the damage.

We often get asked about 'write off' repairs and have done quite a few refurbs etc for customers over the years.

But, to be honest I have to agree with Gooby, it is often not worth doing unless you can do some of the work yourself in order to cut down on cost, as the cost of buying the car is often prohibitive.

You are welcome to call and we can give you some pointers on what to avoid and what to look out for if you like.

A link would be good?

Gill
@Sinclaire 01708 343904

[markizok]

£12,500 but i would do it up over time.

I really want an S2, but there are none around for the money i have right now.

I did speak to Junks about the one he is selling for £11,500 which i would be interested in but there is no real info or service history so to me i wouldnt want to pay that much.

Like i said £12,500 is my limit as its only a second car, but a car that i dont intend to sell so im purposely not getting a loan for it - maybe in winter there may be a car i can aford!

Thanks
Mark

[bogie]

theres a completely straight S2 for £12.5K on there - yellow n black, from Brentwood......seeing as you can pick up early S2s now for £14K ish, I cant see the point....youd want to be paying like £8K for a damaged one to make it remotely worth your while...and it will always be difficult to sell on.

[gooby]

That thing has been around for ages!. For £12.5k, I wouldnt bother. Offer them £8 or £9k

[markizok]

He mentioned that he has had it since January.
Aparently it will cost c. £3k - £4k to repair, if so for £8k it could be a bargin, i just need to make sure that is accurate.

Do you know of any way i can be sure (ballpark will be fine)

[gooby]

I would put aside £3k for the front clam, then there is lights etc etc etc.

Get a VERY accurate survey of the parts required and HAGGLE. The listed price is for the stoopid!

[garyDVO]

Back in 2001 I needed a new front end to my S1, Rad, crashbox, windscreen.... no suspension work required, total parts £8k with labour on top.

You really need an estimate from an Elise bodyshop before even thinking about it.

Also look at the top right pick at the sill cover, looks like the red paint has peeled off (could be reflection) on the drivers sill - Possible Danger - Front impact on the nearside with offside sill distress, twisted chassis?

Free lunch and cheap cars do not exist. You get what you pay for.

When I wanted my S1 second hand was more expensive than new, now the market has many good examples.

Test drive S1's you can afford and S2's that are just above budget, then decide what to do. You never know you may prefer an S1.

Gary

>> Edited by garyDVO on Tuesday 19th July 14:07

[markizok]

Thanks for your comments Garry.
I previously had an s1 and really want an s2 for a change - regardless, i may be better saving for a bit longer!

As for the £12.5k S2 in london, i looked at it but its yellow and i really want red, blue or black - yes i know beggers cant be choosers!!!!

[garyDVO]

Good Luck, did not know you had an S1. Check Seloc.org as well. It is hard to wait when you know what you want. All the best

[oc7]

markizok said:

None of the work will be done by me, i will have to find a decent bodywork specialist (any help would be appreciated!) Thanks Mark

YHM

Gavin.

[theRossatron]

Also don't forget to check things that you would normally check when buying an Elise - service history, mechanicals electrics etc if they are intact.