1998 Lotus Elise S1

Background:

Launched in 1996, the Lotus Elise Series 1 marked a return to Lotus’s core principles of lightweight construction and driver-focused engineering. Built around a pioneering bonded aluminium chassis and clothed in lightweight composite bodywork, the Elise delivered exceptional handling characteristics with minimal reliance on power.

At its heart sits Rover’s 1.8-litre K-Series engine, providing responsive performance in a car weighing under 750kg. With unassisted steering, finely balanced suspension and a minimalist approach, the Elise quickly earned a reputation as one of the most engaging and rewarding sports cars of its era.

The Car:

First registered in October 1998, this Lotus Elise Series 1 is finished in Norfolk Mustard Yellow Metallic with blue upholstery, a distinctive and period-correct combination. Showing 60,984 miles, the car has had two former keepers, with the current owner acquiring it in 2005.

During this extended ownership, the Elise has been used sparingly, covering approximately 1,000 miles over the past decade, and has been garage stored throughout. Although it has not been serviced annually in line with its limited use, the accompanying paperwork file contains invoices documenting maintenance carried out as required. Notably, the car has not required any major repair or restoration work during this time.

The most recent service, completed in September last year, included a new water pump, new timing belt and new battery. In addition, four new tyres were also fitted last year.

The car is supplied with its soft-top roof, an aftermarket ‘shower cap’, indoor car cover, a trickle charger, both keys and its original handbook.

The Elise presents well overall, with the paintwork maintaining a good level of shine, despite being caught in the rain during photography! There are two scuffs along the driver’s side rear wheel arch and a paint chip visible along the front bonnet edge, as shown in the images. There is also a minor tear on the soft-top which has been repaired as shown. Mechanically, the car runs and drives with no warning lights reported.

The current MOT is valid until 21st October 2026, with the following advisories noted:

• Brake hose slightly deteriorated, front and rear protection coil corroded.
• Front brake discs worn, pitted or scored but not seriously weakened.
• Coil springs corroded, front and rear.
• Nearside rear service brake binding but not excessively.
• Rear brake pipes corroded, covered in grease or other material on both sides.

Location: Shrewsbury

Seller: Private