VX 220 - Things to watch for when buying s/h

[Jimbo S2]

Forgive the intrusion but I though here was as good a place as any to ask for advice when looking at a used VX220. Not for me I hasten to add :vomit:, but a mate asked me to have a look at one of these yesteday, overall was quite impressed, lot of car for the money and way cheaper than an equivilant Lotus. I know he could get an older Lotus for his budget but he really wants as new a car as possible for his dosh. Are there any known faults with these or things to keep an eye on? Thanks.

Jimbo
Oh and what a cracking morning,I'm off for a blast, now whats it to be Lotus or MV? Decisions,decisions?

[Muncher]

There are no known serious issues as far as I am aware. The engine is sound, haven't heard of a failure yet whatsoever.

The seat edge on the drivers side will wear, that is normal. If you are familiar with the Elise there isn't anything else you need to look at.

Oh and when driven hard the gearbox breathes into the engine bay and can drip onto the suspension, this is normal, easily fixed too.

[Jimbo S2]

Thanks Muncher,
Did notice a bit of wear on the drivers seat, as you say same as any Elise including my own, my mate seems fairly taken by them, I reckon he will buy one, pound for pound a whole lot of car for little money.

Cheers

Jimbo

[Muncher]

Is he looking for a turbo or an NA?

The only real option is the touring pack really which is insulation on the tub, leather gear console etc

[mike9009]

Might be worthwhile doing some fact finding on vx220.org.uk. Loads of helpful people there - although do a search before asking an obvious question! (You have been warned!)

I used to own an early vx220, and it had wear on the drivers seat after 20000 miles. The NA engine is pretty bomb proof - with little known problems. The Turbo has had isolated problems, but again nothing to worry about.

Happy searching.....


Mike

[Jimbo S2]

He is looking for a n/a one, early model around 3 years old seems about his budget. The more I readup on them then do seem fairly solid. Another bonus is cheap dealer servicing, way better prices than Lotus main dealer costs.

J

[Muncher]

Jimbo S2 said:

He is looking for a n/a one, early model around 3 years old seems about his budget. The more I readup on them then do seem fairly solid. Another bonus is cheap dealer servicing, way better prices than Lotus main dealer costs. J

Mine is 4 years old now, early NA. Servicing is cheap, £150-£180 max for a standard service, no major items. The dealers are somewhat variable so perhaps best to use a VX/Elise specialist for VX/Servicing.