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
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

“MG is easily outselling Jaguar, Land Rover and Bentley combined”
Opinion - MG4
Opinion

“MG is easily outselling Jaguar, Land Rover and Bentley combined”

The wave of Chinese cars has arrived in the UK, and Mike Rutherford thinks it’s not about to stop any time soon
17 Mar 2024
New Skoda Epiq electric SUV revives the spirit of the Yeti
Skoda Epiq - front
News

New Skoda Epiq electric SUV revives the spirit of the Yeti

The all-electric Skoda Epiq crossover SUV is set to be fully unveiled next year and is likely to cost around £22,000
15 Mar 2024
Car Deal of the Day: brand new, top-spec VW Tiguan SUV for way less than you think
Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line - front tracking
News

Car Deal of the Day: brand new, top-spec VW Tiguan SUV for way less than you think

The all-new third generation of Volkswagen’s smash hit mid-size SUV is our Car Deal of the Day for 14 March
14 Mar 2024