S1 111S or modified S1?

[Craig]

Hi

I'm currently try to decide between buying a 111S or a standard Elise with modifications (i.e increasing power, close ratio box).

Has anyone got any advice on the better option to go for? I suppose I'm not sure about the costs of engine upgrades/ gearbox changes etc for starters.

I've heard it is easier to tune the standard cars than the 111S - is that right?

[DanH]

Yes its easier to tune it (read possible), but it will cost you more than just getting a 111s to start with. Depends what you want out of it and how fast you want it.

I'd probably get a 111s and not worry to much if I was you, but I'm not. Think the 111s internals can be torn out if necessary and tuned to 180ish bhp. Not convinced thats worthwhile though.

[Craig]

thanks Dan

I'm chopping in a Diablo for the Elise so the power concerns me a little!

[Bonce]

Craig said: I'm chopping in a Diablo for the Elise so the power concerns me a little!

[TheLemming]

Craig said: thanks Dan

I'm chopping in a Diablo for the Elise so the power concerns me a little!

This has to be an all time classic line

[DanH]

Well if you really want power then a turbo technics is probably the way. If you've been paying diablo servicing bills, then you'll have the stomach for the upgrade cost (5-9k depending on bhp).

The normally aspirated 180 conversions are said to be a little gutless low in the range, which the TT shouldn't suffer from (supercharged). Having said thats the well sorted ones are still very driveable, just not quite on song until you get a few revs through. There remain a few question marks about TT reliability (in my mind at least), but there isn't much that could dice with the 230 break conversion at non stupid speeds.

Failing that www.dvapower.com is the best bet for normally aspirated stuff. He can probably tune you to 220 bhp normally aspirated, but I doubt it would be fun as a road car. You have to rev the nuts of them to get that kind of power too, so engine life is a question.

I recommend you test drive a 111s and see if its fast enough, if not then may as well get a standard car and tune the nuts off it. DVAPower will do a nice 180 upgrade for sensible money.

[asilcock]

My understanding is that if you want to take it to the limit of tuning possibilities (200bhp+) then go for the non-VVC since it saves throwing out some redundant components. Personally I went for the 111s and made the obvious tuning upgrades aswell....PTP/TIG carbon airbox, Trophy 160 throttle body, super-sport exhaust & cat bypass...plenty of power without compromising reliability. 2nd baby is now on the way so my Elise is for sale if you are interested..see the PistonHead classifieds.