With the Elise->ke1678 looking as fresh as ever, it's pretty hard to believe that the model was unveiled approximately two decades ago, in the fall of 1995. Naturally, it has been through a number of extensive refreshes since then, but the current Elise is basically the same car underneath. If the original 1996 model isn't a testament to the forward thinking of Lotus engineers, then I don't know what is. The car's lightness and nimbleness are still widely regarded as benchmarks for mass-produced sports cars,->ke506 even though more than a few pounds were gained over the years.
Lotus has decided to celebrate the model's unveiling 20 years ago with a limited edition. Called the Elise 20th Anniversary Special Edition, the new model has less weight and a host of extra features, replacing the Elise S Club Racer in the Lotus lineup.
Continue reading to learn more about the 2015 Lotus Elise 20th Anniversary Special Edition.
2015 Lotus Elise 20th Anniversary Special Edition
- Make: Array
- Model: 2015 Lotus Elise 20th Anniversary Special Edition
Exterior
You'd be pardoned for thinking that the Elise 20th Anniversary looks almost identical to your average, run-of-the-mill, Lotus Elise, but the truth is that it has its own flavor. The model is available in only four classic Elise colors, Blue, Green, Yellow and Silver, while exterior mirrors, roll-hoop cover, aerodynamic diffuser and rear fascia are in matte black. Apart from a pair of extra driving lights, the front end has no distinctive features compared to a regular model. Matte black lightweight rims are fitted as standard, while 20th Anniversary decals mounted above the side indicators also give a clue of the model's special trim.
Interior
In line with the new model's weight loss, the interior benefits from a couple of extra features that both look good and improve the car's handling. The center console is lightweight and is painted in the same shade as the exterior, while both seats hoops are color-coded with the exterior as well. Both seats are engulfed in leather upholstery, which can be exchanged for Alcantara at no extra cost. The distinctive 20th Anniversary logo is found on each seat and on the stereo, while color-coded stitching on seats and door trims make for a more high-end atmosphere.
Drivetrain
The Lotus Elise 20th Anniversary is equipped as standard with a mid-mounted, supercharged, 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine. Despite being 22 pounds lighter, though, the special edition is no faster than the Elise S, with the same engine. The supercharged four-cylinder delivers 217 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. The 0-to-60 sprint takes just 4.2 seconds, and top speed is 145 mph. With the 20th Anniversary model only weighing 2,015 pounds, it returns a thrifty combined fuel economy of 39.9 mpg.
Prices
Replacing the Lotus Elise S CR in the model range, the 20th Anniversary edition has a starting price of 39,900 pounds MSRP (approx. $59,400 as of 3/23/2015). Keep in mind that although it features approximately $7,668 worth of extra features, the model is only around $4,000 more expensive than the Lotus Elise S.
Competition
Porsche Cayman GT4
Even though it uses a similar formula to achieve performance like the Lotus Elise (lightweight, mid-engine, manual gearbox), the Porsche Cayman GT4 is not exactly in the same league as the Lotus. The model is only fitted with the most basic features, including pull cords instead of regular interior door handle, but it still weighs almost 1,000 pounds more than the petite Elise, at 2,954 pounds unladen.
It more than makes up for that with power though, as the Cayman GT4 is equipped with a de-tuned version of the 911 Carrera S engine. The 3.8-liter flat six deliver 385 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. With a 0-62 mph time of 4.4 seconds, the GT4 is therefore quite a bit faster than the Elise 20th Anniversary. That also comes at a cost, as the Porsche starts at $84,600, while not offering a targa-style solution for its roof, like the Elise does. You can read the full review here.
Conclusion
One of a dying breed of cars, the Lotus Elise 20th Anniversary corresponds to Colin Chapman's maxim of "simplify, then add lightness" in almost every way. The model weighs the least out of all its global rivals, which in theory should translate into fantastic track performance out of the box. Only available with a manual transmission and with that screaming four-cylinder sitting right behind the cockpit, there are few production cars that I would enjoy more on a circuit. Unfortunately, like all other Lotus models besides the 2014 Evora, the Elise 20th Anniversary will not be available in the U.S., but that could change starting with 2016 if recent reports are correct and if enough cars are sold this year. Either way, I think that Lotus couldn't have celebrated the Elise in a better way.