The second series Lotus Elise shares the same 111 type number as the original Elise despite sharing the same up dated Elise chassis as the Vauxhall VX220 (Lotus Type 116) which I looked at last week.

To meet new safety regulations Series 2 Elises goined over 100 kgs in weight but they were also more powerful which made up for some of the in creased weight.

One of the major differences between the VX220 and second Series Elise is that the Lotus has 16 inch front wheels and 17 inch rears where as the Vauxhall has marginally compromised the handling of the VX220 by having 17 inches wheels all round.

For those who can master the technique of getting into an Elise the handling and acceleration are said to go kart like as is the absence of any carpets, fuel gauge engine temperature gauge or central locking.

This 2002 Sport 135R version comes with sports suspension, for ever closer to go kart like handling and a Rover K series motor tuned to produce 135 hp.

In this trim an Elise is said to be able to accelerate from rest to 62mph in 5.4 seconds and on up to a top speed of 129 mph.

Thanks for joining me on this “Uncompromising Acquired Taste” edition of “Gettin’ a li’l psycho on tyres” I hope you will join me again tomorrow. Don’t forget to come back now !