Registration - W102 TPW

Chassis No - SCCJA1114YHC31335

M.O.T. - March 2024

Odometer - 68,085

‘W102 TPW’ has remained in the vendor’s care for no less than 14 years. It is an eye-catching example of the sought-after 111S version of the ever-popular Elise, the metallic burgundy bodywork of which is teamed with black interior trim. The car has evidently been regularly maintained by a well-known Lotus specialist, who was also responsible for rebuilding the VVC engine as little as 9,000 miles ago, as well as the service carried out in the last few months. In common with many Elises, the sale car has been used for the occasional track day, in deference to which it rides on Yokohama tyres and features a Corbeau racing seat and Schroth harness for the driver, as well as an Omex Shift Light Pro gearchange timer. The vendor presently grades the refurbished engine and five-speed manual gearbox as ‘excellent’, and the bodywork, paintwork and upholstery as ‘average’. He is now selling the Lotus complete with Pioneer audio unit, large selection of invoices for work carried out, and a current MOT valid into March next year.

The Julian Thomson-penned Series 1 version of the Elise entered production in September 1996. Thanks to its deliberately low kerb weight, it was able to accelerate from 0-60mph in a supercar humbling 5.8 seconds, despite the relatively modest power output of 118bhp from its Rover K Series engine. A markedly low centre of gravity ensured the road-holding of this mid-engined two-seater was equally impressive. The car’s contemporary construction comprised a hand-finished fibreglass body mounted to a bonded extruded aluminium chassis. The Elise name was inspired by Elisa, the granddaughter of Romano Artioli, who was the chairman of both Lotus and Bugatti at the time of the little Lotus’ launch. A higher powered version of the model known as the 111S was introduced in 1999. Its extra urge was supplied by the VVC (Variable Valve Control) version of the K Series engine, which endowed the Lotus with an additional 25bhp. Related changes included a closer ratio gearbox, lower final drive ratio, cross-drilled brakes, rear spoiler, six-spoke alloy wheels, headlamp covers, ‘chipcutter’ front grille, additional seat padding and alloy window winders.

In summary:

• An eye-catching five-keeper, 68,085-mile example of the Elise 111S
• The subject of a professional engine rebuild 9,000 miles ago
• Equipped with Corbeau race seat, harness and Omex Shift Light Pro