2009 Lotus Elise
Should You Buy a 2009 Lotus Elise?
The 2009 Lotus Elise is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car that offers an exhilarating driving experience. With a 1.8L I4 engine producing 189 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque, it delivers a thrilling performance while maintaining a respectable 23 MPG combined. Priced at an MSRP of $47,250, the Elise is designed for those who prioritize agility and handling over everyday practicality. Its convertible body type and two-seat configuration make it an ideal choice for driving enthusiasts who enjoy open-air motoring on winding roads or track days.
Despite its focused design, the Elise boasts a perfect reliability score of 100/100 from NHTSA, indicating that it is a dependable choice for buyers. With only one reported complaint related to hydraulic service brakes, there are no significant safety concerns to worry about. This makes the Elise not only a fun vehicle to drive but also a reliable option for those looking to invest in a sports car that stands out from the crowd.
The 2009 Lotus Elise is best suited for driving enthusiasts who seek a lightweight, high-performance sports car for weekend drives and track days.
Strengths
- +Exceptional handling and agility due to lightweight construction
- +High reliability score of 100/100 from NHTSA
- +Thrilling performance with a responsive 1.8L engine
- +Unique and eye-catching design that stands out
- +Engaging driving experience with a 6-speed manual transmission
Weaknesses
- -Limited cargo space and storage options
- -Only seats two, making it impractical for families
- -Requires premium unleaded fuel, increasing operating costs
- -Stiff ride quality may not be comfortable for daily commuting
- -Lack of modern technology features compared to newer sports cars
Known Issues (NHTSA Data)
No significant NHTSA complaints on record. The only reported issue pertains to the hydraulic service brakes, which is a common area of concern in performance vehicles. Overall, the Elise has proven to be a reliable sports car with no major safety incidents reported.
Performance
- Horsepower
- –
- Torque
- –
- Engine
- 1.8 L
- Cylinders
- I4
- Transmission
- Manual 6-spd
- Drive Type
- RWD
Efficiency
- MPG Combined
- 22
- Fuel Type
- Premium Gasoline
Dimensions
- Length
- –
- Width
- –
- Height
- –
- Wheelbase
- –
- Curb Weight
- –
- Ground Clearance
- –
Capacity
- Doors
- –
- Seating
- –
- Cargo
- –
- Max Cargo
- –
- Max Towing
- –
- Max Payload
- –