Lotus Elise S2
The definitive lightweight sports car, built on Colin Chapman's philosophy of simplicity.
- Power
- 120 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.5 s
- Top speed
- 124 mph
- Est. value
- $31k–$55k
About the Lotus Elise S2
The Series 2 Lotus Elise refined the revolutionary bonded aluminium chassis of the original while introducing more aggressive styling and improved daily usability. This 2005 model features the lightweight Rover K-series engine, prized by enthusiasts for its low mass and characterful delivery before Lotus transitioned fully to Toyota power. With unassisted steering and a kerb weight well under a tonne, it offers a level of tactile feedback and agility that few modern cars can match. It remains a benchmark for handling purity and a staple of the British sports car tradition.
Lotus Elise S2 specs
The Lotus Elise S2 produces 120 bhp (89 kW) and 168 Nm (124 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h).
| Make | Lotus |
|---|---|
| Model | Elise |
| Generation | S2 |
| Trim | 1.8 |
| Years | 2000–2010 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Roadster |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 35,124 built |
| Original price | About $44,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.8-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc (1.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 120 bhp (89 kW) at 5,600 rpm |
| Torque | 168 Nm (124 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,950 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.5 s |
| Top speed | 124 mph (200 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 756 kg (1,667 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 159 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Lotus Elise S2 worth?
A typical Lotus Elise S2 is estimated to be worth $31,000 – $55,000 (about £23,000 – £41,000).
Its original price when new was about $44,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Lotus Elise S2 rarity in CarSpot
The Lotus Elise S2 is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 15 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Lotus Elise S2 fun facts
- The Elise was named after Elisa Artioli, the granddaughter of then-Lotus chairman Romano Artioli.
- The Series 2 was developed in collaboration with General Motors, sharing its basic architecture with the Vauxhall VX220 and Opel Speedster.
- Its chassis is made of extruded aluminium sections that are bonded with epoxy resin rather than welded, a technique pioneered by Lotus.
