2000 Lotus Elise 340 R Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Lotus Elise 340 R has an exceptionally low curb weight of 660 kg (1455 lbs). This lightweight construction significantly enhances its performance by allowing quicker acceleration, nimble handling, and improved braking. The low weight also contributes to better fuel efficiency and an engaging driving experience, making the 340 R a pure driver's car that excels on both road and track.

The Elise 340 R rides on 15-inch rims, with tire sizes 195/50 R15 on the front and 225/45 R15 on the rear. These relatively small wheels are chosen to complement the car's lightweight design, providing precise steering feedback and excellent grip. The staggered tire sizes enhance rear traction, contributing to balanced handling and the ability to maintain high cornering speeds.

Yes, the Elise 340 R is compact enough to fit comfortably inside a standard residential garage. With a length of 3620 mm (142.5 inches) and a width of 1702 mm (67 inches), it takes up less space than many typical sports cars. Its height of just 1123 mm (44.2 inches) also means it clears most garage door heights easily, making it practical for owners with typical home garage setups.

Compared to the original Lotus Elise Series 1 introduced in 1996, the 340 R edition is a lighter and more focused variant. While both share similar overall dimensions, the 340 R's curb weight of 660 kg (1455 lbs) is lower than the Series 1's approximate 725-755 kg (1598-1663 lbs), thanks to lightweight body panels and a stripped-down design. This reduction enhances agility and track-oriented performance compared to the standard Elise.

The low height of 1123 mm (44.2 inches) gives the Lotus Elise 340 R a very low center of gravity, which is crucial for sharp handling and stability at high speeds. A lower vehicle height reduces aerodynamic drag and improves downforce, resulting in greater grip and better performance on corners. However, the low height also means limited headroom, emphasizing the car's focus on driver engagement over comfort.

With a width of 1702 mm (67 inches), the Elise 340 R maintains a narrow profile compared to many contemporary sports cars. This compact width helps the car slice through corners effortlessly, providing sharp turn-in and agile handling. While the narrow width limits interior cabin space, especially shoulder room, it enhances the car's purposeful road presence and maneuverability in tight driving conditions.

When compared to other lightweight sports cars of the early 2000s like the Ariel Atom or the Suzuki Cappuccino, the Lotus Elise 340 R is slightly larger in length and width but similar in its ultra-lightweight focus. Its 3620 mm length and 1702 mm width place it in the compact sports car category, while its weight of 660 kg (1455 lbs) is among the lowest, reinforcing Lotus' philosophy of 'performance through lightness' compared to competitors with heavier builds.

Yes, the Elise 340 R features a minimalist, open-top roadster design that emphasizes its low height of 1123 mm (44.2 inches) and compact proportions. Its relatively short length of 3620 mm (142.5 inches) and width of 1702 mm (67 inches) contribute to a tight wheelbase and sporty stance. These dimensions, combined with lightweight materials and aerodynamic focus, define its purposeful roadster character focused on delivering pure driving thrills.

Due to its lightweight and stripped-out design prioritizing performance, the Lotus Elise 340 R offers very limited luggage and storage capacity. The compact dimensions, especially the short length and narrow width, mean interior storage or trunk space is minimal. Typically, the car can accommodate only small bags in the front compartment area, making it best suited for short trips or track use rather than extended touring or carrying significant cargo.