Lotus Elan II (M100) 1.6 i 16V S2 (158 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.5 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.2 / 5
Value 3.9 / 5
Performance 4.3 / 5
Comfort 2.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Lotus Elan:

Lotus Elan is the name of two separate ranges of automobiles produced by Lotus Cars. The first series of cars was produced between 1962 and 1975 as a rear-wheel drive vehicle. The second series was produced between 1989 and 1995 as a front-wheel drive vehicle.
After the S2 was released the original Elan 1500 and Elan 1600 models were typically referred to as the S1 although the car was never explicitly marketed as such. Today, all models are often cited collectively as the 1960s Elans....(Read more on Wikipedia)

II (M100) Overview:

Lotus Elan (II (M100)). With 198 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1020 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is good (0–100 km/h in 7.2 s). The top speed reaches 220 km/h. A convertible car with a retractable roof, offering open-air driving experiences. Seating for 2 makes it ideal for daily use.

1.6 i 16V S2 (158 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

Offers a lively and engaging driving experience with strong mid-range torque thanks to its turbocharger, making it quick for its class.

Fuel Economy

Fuel consumption is reasonable for a turbocharged sports car, balancing performance with acceptable daily running costs.

Best Use Case: Spirited B-road driving and weekend cruises, capable of highway speeds with ease.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional handling and steering feedback (FWD done right)
  • • Punchy turbocharged Isuzu engines
  • • Unique and distinctive styling
  • • Relatively rare and collectible
  • • Good power-to-weight ratio

Cons:

  • • Front-wheel drive may deter some purists
  • • Limited interior space and practicality
  • • Parts availability can be challenging for some components
  • • Lotus build quality and electrical issues can arise
  • • Firm ride may not suit all drivers

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(II (M100): 1991 - 1993).

General:
Brand:Lotus
Model:Elan
Generation:II (M100)
Modification (Engine):1.6 i 16V S2 (158 Hp)
Start of production:1994
End of production:1996
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Cabriolet
Seats:2
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:158 Hp @ 6000 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:99.5 Hp/l [97mm less]
Torque:198 Nm @ 4200 rpm.
Engine displacement:1588
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger
Valvetrain:DOHC
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:80 mm mm
Piston Stroke:79 mm mm
Compression ratio:8.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:8.9 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:7.2 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:7.2 sec
Maximum speed:220 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:6.5 kg/Hp, 154.9 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.2 kg/Nm, 194.1 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:7.5 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1020
Max. weight:1270
Max load:250
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:185 l
Fuel tank capacity:46 l
Size:
Length:3803 mm mm [97mm less]
Width:1734 mm mm [1mm less]
Height:1240 mm mm [10mm more]
Wheelbase:2250 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Front track:1486 mm
Rear (Back) track:1486 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size205/45 R16
Wheel rims size16
Front suspensionCoil spring
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Does the Lotus Elan live up to the hype? Give us your verdict!