Skip advert
Advertisement
Car group tests

Lotus Elise 1.8 (220) S, 67.8%

Who’d have thought one of the oldest models on sale would have the best residual value figure on the new car market?

Lotus Elise

Who’d have thought one of the oldest models on sale would have the best residual value figure on the new car market?

The Lotus Elise was launched way back in 1996, and although it’s been subject to constant development ever since then, its popularity as a no-frills track day car has helped to keep values high.

Advertisement - Article continues below

You can get the Elise in standard 1.6-litre form, or with a 1.8-litre engine if you choose the Elise S. Pick the latter to make your money go furthest, as it’s predicted to hold on to nearly 20 per cent more of its price when new, at 67.8 per cent.

No other new car currently on sale can match that. Why is the Lotus so resistant to depreciation? Well, it has desirability on its side, is built in limited numbers and provides a clear edge in performance. While an output of 217bhp is put to shame by most hot hatchbacks, the Elise S tips the scales at only 924kg, so the rev-happy Toyota-sourced 1.8 catapults it from 0-60mph in 4.2 seconds.

But the Lotus comes into its own in corners. The agile chassis and communicative steering combine for a hugely entertaining driving experience that upholds Lotus tradition.

Price now: £37,150

Value after three years: £25,188

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £27,005Avg. savings £7,837 off RRP*Used from £12,712
Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Tucson

RRP £29,820Avg. savings £4,754 off RRP*Used from £14,000
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £37,230Avg. savings £3,788 off RRP*Used from £15,300
Renault Clio

Renault Clio

RRP £16,160Avg. savings £3,343 off RRP*Used from £9,595
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

MG Cyber X will morph into a mini-Mercedes within two years
MG Cyber X design render - front

MG Cyber X will morph into a mini-Mercedes within two years

Boxy small SUV is gearing up for production, and our exclusive images show how the model might look
News
30 Aug 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Ford Puma Gen-E granted ultra-low £132 monthly lease
Ford Puma Gen-E - front action

Car Deal of the Day: Ford Puma Gen-E granted ultra-low £132 monthly lease

The EV grant has made the Ford Puma Gen-E a lot cheaper, and lease customers can cash-in with today’s Deal of the Day
News
29 Aug 2025
Car Deal of the Day: Racy and retro Renault 5 for only £188 a month
Renault 5 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Racy and retro Renault 5 for only £188 a month

The Renault 5 is taking the market by storm – and at this price it’s easy to see why. It’s our Deal of the Day for August 30
News
30 Aug 2025