1998 Lotus Elise S1

KEY FACTS

• This Lotus Elise S1 is a lightweight and exciting modern classic sports car, enhanced with a Bell & Colvill 140bhp upgrade.
• It is powered by a 1.8-litre naturally aspirated inline-four, driving the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission.
• First registered in April 1998, this example has only recently been acquired by the seller and the third owner since new.
• The odometer indicates 62,493 miles, which the seller believes to be the genuine total.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This Elise S1 is finished in a timeless shade of silver, over a red leather and black cloth-trimmed interior, featuring a black dashboard and door card inserts, and exposed aluminium body panels.
• It rides on a set of staggered 15-inch front and 16-inch rear twin five-spoke alloy wheels finished in metallic grey and fitted with mixed tyres.
• Equipment includes a top-tinted windscreen, a black leather-trimmed steering wheel, heater and ventilation controls, and an aluminium gear knob.
• This example has been enhanced with a Bell & Colvill 140bhp upgrade and LED headlights.
• Accompanied by the owner’s handbooks, the V5C, the service booklet, a touch-up paint pot, a selection of maintenance invoices, and two keys.

CONDITION

• Please refer to the photo gallery to assess the exterior and interior condition.
• Specific notes from the seller include: age-related marks, a slight scuff on the nose and a scuff on the passenger wing mirror.
• MOT test history is shown via the button in the listing overview.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The seller states that the last maintenance was carried out in April 2026 at around 62,000 miles by Theo Elliott (Cars Guardian), including an engine oil and filter change, new spark plugs, four new tyres, fitment of four new adjustable coilover shock absorbers, and replacement gear lever bushes.
• The seller states that the car was also serviced in August 2025 at 62,100 miles.
• The seller reports that a further service was carried out in August 2024 at an indicated 59,902 miles.
• The seller notes that additional maintenance carried out before their ownership includes the replacement of the headlamp supports with genuine parts, a headlamp relay repair, a brake fluid change, and a gearbox oil change.

SUMMARY

The Lotus Elise S1 is lauded as one of the purest driving experiences available, renowned for its handling, minimalist design and lightweight construction. This example benefits from a Bell & Colvill 140bhp upgrade, enhancing its already potent 1.8-litre inline-four, and is offered for sale by its third owner since new. Offering an engaging and unadulterated connection to the road, this Elise S1 would make an exciting companion for weekend blasts and track days alike.

Descriptions are provided by the seller and, to their knowledge, are accurate and not misleading. Buyers must satisfy themselves of the description’s accuracy, and independent research is strongly advised. Enquiries should be raised in the comments section and any inspections arranged before bidding.

Classic and collectible vehicles may have had cosmetic or bodywork repairs that are not visually apparent. Photographs may not accurately reflect colour or condition, so buyers should confirm key details directly with the seller. Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a car or bike. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.