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2011 Lotus Elise Convertible
Summary
Provided by NADAguides.com
Acting under the pressure of the rapid and trendy exotic sports car category, the 2011 Lotus Elise is wearing new-look bodywork. 2011 Elise models will feature different front, rear engine cover and bumper body panels in base as well as the SC trim level reducing wind resistance. On the base model version of the 2011 Lotus Elise, a normally-aspirated 1.8 liter inline-4 engine pumps out an energetic 189 horsepower. Weighing just under 2,000 pounds, 0 to 60 mile per hour acceleration of the Lotus Elise occurs in 4.8 seconds through a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. Lotus/ AP-Racing brakes and Brembo calipers provides considerable stopping power to the 17-inch cast alloy wheels. On the 2011 Lotus Elise SC, horsepower is boosted to 218 horsepower through a supercharger added to the mid-mounted 1.8 liter engine. With the increased power, acceleration drops to a quick 4.4 seconds. Other standard equipment found on all 2011 Lotus Elise models includes new LED daytime running lights and a tool kit.
Benefits of Driving a 2011 Lotus Elise Convertible
The Lotus Elise has been available in Europe for more than a decade, while the U.S. had to wait until 2005 for the roadster to hit American shores. In the years since, little has changed for the Elise racer. People who buy the Elise are interested in a track car that can occasionally be driven in town. It is lightweight outside and in, and is not intended for casual use. But, when used properly, the Elise provides intense handling and supercar responsiveness. The 4-cylinder Toyota-sourced engine inside the 2011 Elise provides reliability and surprising fuel economy at 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
What's new for 2011?
Minimal changes have been made to the Elise line for 2011. The most notable updates include slightly revised styling at the front clamshell, rear bumper and an engine cover. New headlights have also been fitted, with LED daytime running lights and LED turn signals. Improved aerodynamics aid in achieving greater fuel economy and new cast and forged wheels give it an updated look. In the interest of saving weight, one of the new sets of wheels weighs only 65 lbs total.
Model Strengths
- Distinctive roadster styling
- lightweight with no-frills
- excellent fuel economy
- a fun weekend racer
Model Review
The Elise is a track-ready car with minimal interior comforts, nearly no cargo space and a rock-hard suspension. It's also one of the fastest, best-handling cars available. It offers supercar acceleration and handling in a striking design. The base Elise gets to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, and the SC trim is a tenth of a second slower, but has a smoother power curve, making it slightly more drivable day-to-day.
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