| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 2000 |
| Production Years: | 2000 - 2010 discontinued in 2010 |
Precise measurements of the 2000 Lotus Elise, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 3785 mm149.0 in12.4 ft |
| Width: | 1719 mm67.7 in5.6 ft |
| Height: | 1143 mm45.0 in3.8 ft |
| Trunk Capacity: | 115 liter4.1 cu ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 756 - 850 kg1667 - 1874 lbs |
| Maximal permitted Weight: | 940 - 990 kg2072 - 2183 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Rims Sizes: | 16, 17 |
| Tire Sizes: | 175/55 R16 (W:175 | H:55 | D:16) 225/45 R17 (W:225 | H:45 | D:17) |
The Lotus Elise Series 2, produced from 2000 to 2010, is a quintessential lightweight roadster designed for driving enthusiasts who value agility and pure driving enjoyment. This generation of the Elise retained the iconic compact shape with improved features and engineering refinements compared to its predecessor. Measuring 3785 mm (149.0 inches) in length, 1719 mm (67.7 inches) in width, and 1143 mm (45.0 inches) in height, the Series 2 Elise presents a low and wide stance characteristic of sports cars aiming for optimal handling and aerodynamic efficiency.
One of the standout attributes of this roadster is its remarkably low curb weight, ranging from just 756 kg to 850 kg (approximately 1666 to 1874 pounds), depending on the configuration. The light-weight construction strongly contributes to the car’s exceptional responsiveness and dynamic performance. The maximum permissible weight varies between 940 kg and 990 kg (2072 to 2183 pounds), offering a practical balance between performance and everyday usability.
The Elise Series 2’s luggage capacity is modest yet functional for a sports car of its class, providing 115 liters (4.06 cubic feet) of storage space—suitable for light travel or weekend getaways. Wheel options include 16-inch and 17-inch rims fitted with tires sized 175/55 R16 and 225/45 R17 respectively, further enhancing the vehicle’s grip and cornering capability.
Overall, the Lotus Elise Series 2 stands out as an iconic entry in the sports car segment, celebrated for its minimalist design philosophy focused on lightweight engineering and superior handling. Its compact dimensions and low mass make it an ideal choice for drivers who seek a pure and engaging driving experience on both road and track.
Discover the standout features that make the 2000 Lotus Elise a leader in its class
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The Lotus Elise (Series 2) features a compact and lightweight design with a length of 3785 mm (149 inches), width of 1719 mm (67.7 inches), and a low height of 1143 mm (45 inches). These dimensions contribute to its agile handling and sporty character as a roadster, allowing for an engaging driving experience while maintaining a small footprint that is ideal for tight city spaces and winding roads.
The Lotus Elise (Series 2) has a curb weight ranging between 756 kg (1667 lbs) and 850 kg (1874 lbs), with a maximum allowable weight of approximately 940 kg (2072 lbs) to 990 kg (2183 lbs), depending on model specifications and optional equipment. This lightweight construction, achieved through extensive use of aluminum and composite materials, results in outstanding power-to-weight ratio, enhancing acceleration, braking, and cornering abilities, making the Elise a highly nimble and responsive sports car.
Yes, the Lotus Elise (Series 2) fits comfortably in a standard residential garage. With its length of 3785 mm (149 inches), width of 1719 mm (67.7 inches), and height of only 1143 mm (45 inches), it is smaller and lower than many conventional cars. Most standard garage spaces, which typically measure around 6 meters (20 feet) in length and 3 meters (10 feet) in width, can easily accommodate the Elise, leaving additional room for storage or movement around the vehicle.
The Lotus Elise (Series 2) includes a modest luggage capacity of 115 liters (approximately 4 cubic feet). While this is limited compared to larger sports cars or grand tourers, it is fairly typical for lightweight roadsters that prioritize performance and minimal weight over cargo space. This capacity is enough for small bags or weekend essentials, making the Elise practical for short trips rather than long-distance travel.
The Lotus Elise (Series 2) comes equipped with either 16-inch or 17-inch rims, paired with tires sized 175/55 R16 at the front and 225/45 R17 at the rear for optimum grip and handling balance. These tire dimensions support the car’s lightweight and low center of gravity, enhancing cornering precision and road feedback, which are essential for the Elise’s sporty driving dynamics and agile maneuverability.
At 1719 mm (67.7 inches) wide, the Lotus Elise (Series 2) is relatively narrow compared to many modern cars, which often exceed 1800 mm in width. This narrower profile contributes to ease of maneuvering through tight city streets, squeezing into small parking spots, and reduces aerodynamic drag, aiding performance. The compact width is an advantage for drivers living in urban settings who need a sporty yet easy-to-park vehicle.
The low height of the Lotus Elise (Series 2) at 1143 mm (45 inches) gives the car a very sporty, low-slung stance, promoting superior aerodynamics and a lowered center of gravity. This enhances stability and improves cornering performance. However, the low height also means getting in and out requires some care, and the cabin may feel more compact, which is typical for a roadster designed primarily for sporty driving rather than comfort.
Compared to its predecessor, the Series 1 Elise, the Series 2 maintains a similar lightweight ethos but features subtle dimensional and weight adjustments. The Series 2 measures 3785 mm in length versus about 3740 mm for the Series 1, slightly longer but still compact. Weight varies from 756 to 850 kg depending on trim, which is comparable to or marginally higher than Series 1 due to added refinements and comfort features. These changes deliver improved comfort and safety while preserving agility and performance.
The Lotus Elise (Series 2) stands out among similar roadsters of its time, such as the Mazda MX-5 Miata or BMW Z3, by being notably lighter and more compact. At roughly 3785 mm length and 756-850 kg weight, the Elise prioritizes lightweight engineering over luxury or power alone, resulting in superior handling and responsiveness. Other roadsters often offer more interior space and comfort but cannot match the Elise’s purist focus on driving dynamics and a driver-centric experience.
Yes, the curb weight variation between 756 to 850 kg in the Lotus Elise (Series 2) is notable but expected, reflecting differences across versions and optional equipment packages. For instance, models equipped with more comfort features, upgraded engines, or additional safety components tend to be at the higher end of the weight scale. Despite this variation, all Elise Series 2 variants remain exceedingly light compared to typical sports cars, ensuring consistent sharp handling and spirited driving performance.
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