Gone are the days when racing cars were mere speed maniacs zooming along the roads at dizzy speeds. Today’s sports cars are also equipped for passenger comfort and luxury. But then, in most cars this has added to the bulk and the cars end up looking anything but sporty. Not the new Lotus Elise though. This car is a different sort altogether. Light and speedy, this car truly looks and feels sporty. Does it score this well in other aspects? Let us see.

The car manufacturers seemed insistent on great speeds, but of course, they had to cater to the market requirements. People want safety and comfort features in their car, even if it is a rugged or speedy sports car. Hence, the balance was maintained by adding some comfort features here and there to meet U.S standards, and the focus on speed wasn’t too extreme. With a weight of less than 2000 pounds, this car ranks easily as one of the lightest vehicles across the States. Within 4-point-something seconds, this light vehicle goes up to 60 mph and this has earned it the cool factor from many drivers.

2008 Lotus Elise brings a supercharged engine for the new lotus Elise, which doesn’t even need too much power because of its weight. The 2 seater convertible is good enough on the road. There is standard AC, a CD sound system and antilock brakes as well. The car looks really unique on the outside, with an aggressive design and some bold color. But the interiors are Spartan. The car could be customized with a Touring package if needed for added comfort, while the Sports package answers the need for more fun.

The car as such is exciting on the road and provides complete adventure for your money, but people wanting a safe car could get extra features.

Engine: 4 out of 5….. the 1.8 liter 4 cylinder engine is enough for reasonably thrilling speeds on any road.

Transmission: 3 out of 5…. Easy manual transmission, enough for the job.

Handling: 4 out of 5… easy handling

Safety: 3 out of 5 … basic safety features, more could enhance weight of the car.

Value 4 out of 5.. not out of reach at $55,000. quite a good car for your money

Tech Specs

Body: 2 trims for the 2 door and 2 passenger sports car convertible

Engine: standard 1.8 liter l4 engine

Transmission: standard 6 speed manual transmission (with overdrive)

Power: the Lotus Elise convertible performs at 189 hp (7800 rpm) while the Lotus Elise convertible performs at 218 hp (8000 rpm)

Torque:  Lotus Elise convertible operates at 133 at 6800 (ft-lbs) while the Lotus Elise convertible operates at 156 at 5000 (ft-lbs)

Tires: 175 mm, 16 inch radial tires, both with rack and pinion steering, front and rear disc brakes and independent suspension.

Verdict: definitely a speedy and high-performing roadster, but could do with a little rethinking on the safety features and standard convenience features.

For: the car performs very well, looks unique.

Against: safety features and convenience need improvement.

The new joyride, 2008 Lotus Exige S 240, is one of the most stylish 2-door sports cars in the current batch of cars. People driving it will surely love the sensation of this feline type, sleek and agile pair of wheels. The car simply sets the road on fire and fills its viewers with jealousy.

Mechanical features

With a 16valve, 1.8 liter I4 standard engine, 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 musters a power of 240 hp. It curtails 20 mpg within the city and 26 on the highway. Its 6-speed transmission is manual and comes with overdrive and a shifter mounted on the floor.

Most importantly the suspension is of sport-ride type and the shock absorbers are gas charged as well as mono tube. The front also carries a stabilizer bar and pre-wiring for the audio.

Exterior & lighting features

Having a spoiler at the rear, 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 can also boast of side scoops and aero cladding underneath the body along with air intakes and dam. The car looks fantastic with the scoops and has an attractive get-up. The tires assure performance and are fitted with matte-black alloy wheels. It also provides a kit for spare tires that can be inflated.

Combining these features and adding to its charisma are halogen headlights coupled with fog-lights at the front and running lights for daytime.

Comfort features

For a car like 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 fitted with entertaining packages like radio, CD player as well as speakers, it is real praiseworthy. Again, the front is entirely matted with carpet and steering wheel is leathered.

Braking features

For a car like 2008 Lotus Exige S 240, it is essential that the braking and traction work efficiently in unison. For this purpose, there is traction control to make up for all speeds. Each of the wheels is also provided with anti-lock brakes. There are powered and independent disc brakes too at both the end with the difference being the front has Racing type while the rear has Brembo type.

Safety & Security features

It is understandable that having a car like 2008 Lotus Exige S 240, any person would be thinking to show off while compromising their safety. Thus, it is essential that the car is well equipped as it has been. Along with crumple zones within the car, there are airbags to support both the driver as well as any passenger. To cope with the little remaining, it includes 3-point seatbelts on the outboard at the front and guard door beams at the side.

It is to be thought that envious minds could easily be willing to walk away with a car, for which 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 has been equipped with anti-theft mechanisms that trigger an alarm and immobilizes the engine. You are also provided with doors, which are power locked. Even the remote controlled gadgetry is advanced and includes trunk release along with keyless entry.

Driving 2008 Lotus Exige S 240 would be an absolute thrill and fun loving experience. It would be really worthwhile for anybody to procure a drive of this caliber.

Tech Specs

Body: 2-door coupe

Engine: 1.8 liter I4 240 hp

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Torque: 170 units

Power: 240 hp

Tires: SBRP195/50R16 (Front) and SBRP225/45R17 (Rear)

Verdict:

For: Robotic looks and blasting acceleration

Against: Plain dashboard and crammed cockpit