2005 Lotus Elise Review
2005 Lotus Elise Review
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Used Elise for sale
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Ultralightweight chassis, free-revving four-cylinder, uninhibited steering, supercar performance without the supercar price.
Cons
- Spartan interior, engine still a bit peaky for U.S. tastes, ride quality more Formula One than grand touring, limited dealer network.
What’s new
After years of letting Europeans have all the fun, the lightweight Lotus Elise sports car finally makes it to the States.
Edmunds says
Sports car fans rejoice! The European version of the Elise was very good; the U.S. version is even better. Better get in line quick if you want one, though; initial demand is sure to outstrip supply of this hot roadster.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2005 Lotus Elise 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$189/mo for Elise Base
Elise Base
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2005 Lotus Elise.
5 star(84%)
4 star(15%)
3 star(1%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
74 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
2005 Lotus Elise
mark Greenblatt, 03/28/2006
2005 Lotus Elise 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
Anyone who is serious about sports cars should put this car on your short list of cars to test drive. I have had 4 Porsches, much more expensive than this car, but I will never go back to Porsche again. They are so boring and bland compared to this car. A purchaser of this car should be aware that it is one of the most raw cars for sale. Raw meaning it has a loud engine (1/3 of my reason … to buy a car is the sound it makes), the interior is spartan with a lot of exposed chassis metal (which I think looks so cool), it is a simple car designed to have balanced handling and performance, low weight, and will give you grins every time you get in it. It has a Toyota drivetrain to boot.
4.63 out of 5 stars
Lots of Bang for your Buck!
WC Kelly, 06/25/2008
2005 Lotus Elise 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
This car is a true head-turner. There is absolutely, positively NO other car that competes with the Lotus Elise in either looks or performance for the price. An absolute PLEASURE to drive, this car will give you a perma-grin. I have parked my Chrome Orange Elise next to cars costing twice as much, yet the crowd seems to gather around the Lotus. If you are shy, this is NOT the car for … you, unless, perhaps, you are looking to come out of your shell. This is an excellent car for for women or men with small feet, as the pedals are located close together. It is certainly not the most graceful car to enter and exit... (don't wear a skirt ladies!) All in all a fantastic car to drive!
5 out of 5 stars
Dump your Ferrari!
JohnRocket, 06/05/2007
2005 Lotus Elise 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
Having owned virtually every dreamy sportscar imaginable (yes, I HAD an Enzo), this car is BY FAR the greatest thing that has ever happened to a sunny Sunday morning. Though tough to get into, once inside, you get a comfortable driving position, phenomenal fuel economy, unfiltered communication from the car, and the most pure "street legal" driving experience. Plus, the added benefit … of very low cost of ownership, and not worrying if something is happening outside to your Lambo/Ferrari while it is unattended, be it valet or street- parked. Plenty of fans on the streets, but more are curious of what it is, rather than what it costs. Very cool, very fun.
4.38 out of 5 stars
Pure Fun
dk, 12/21/2009
2005 Lotus Elise 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
If you just want to have kick butt driving fun, this is your car. Don't expect posh comfort but do expect the most fun that you have ever had driving a car. No cup holders but then again, it would spill anyway. You will also become a minor celeb as people will take your picture, and will follow you all over the place. It can actually get a little annoying but once again, fun. No … matter what other cars on around you, you will become the focal point. I have had mine for 4 years and I still love to just look at it. The temptation to drive too fast is overwhelming but it looks fast just parked so you get over it. Fantastic car.
2005 Elise Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $42,990 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $189/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Elise include:
- Alarm
Related Used 2005 Lotus Elise info
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