The 2005 Lotus Elise represents the peak of lightweight, performance-focused motoring. This 22k-mile example, finished in Arctic Silver Metallic, embodies the Elise’s reputation for pure mechanical feedback and incredible handling prowess. Having spent most of its life in California, it presents a rare opportunity for enthusiasts to own a low-mileage car that remains highly original and well-maintained.
Understanding the Elise Philosophy
The essence of the Elise lies in its minimal weight and exceptional chassis engineering. This philosophy translates to a driving feel that is visceral and highly connected to the road. Its bonded aluminum chassis is the core of this experience, offering outstanding rigidity without adding unnecessary bulk. Therefore, even minor inputs from the driver result in immediate and precise directional changes.
Arctic Silver Metallic Exterior and Details
This specific 2005 Lotus Elise 22k-Mile features the eye-catching Arctic Silver Metallic finish. It also comes equipped with an Exige-style rear wing, which enhances its aggressive aesthetic profile. A color-matched hardtop is included, providing additional security and refinement for longer trips. For a more open-air experience, the removable thermal- and noise-insulated soft top is also present. However, bidders should note the finish imperfections on the nose and rocker panels, consistent with light road use over the years.
Braking, Wheels, and Chassis Control
Performance is nothing without control, a factor the Lotus engineers clearly understood. The car rides on staggered 16-inch front and 17-inch rear split seven-spoke alloy wheels. These wheels are currently fitted with high-performance Yokohama Advan Neova AD07 tires, which were recently refreshed. Furthermore, stopping power is provided by ventilated and cross-drilled discs with AP Racing and Brembo calipers. This combination ensures sharp, reliable deceleration to match the car’s speed.
Cockpit Design and Features
Stepping into the cockpit reveals an interior focused entirely on the driving task. The previous owner fitted black upholstered Reverie carbon-fiber seats, providing excellent support and further shedding weight. Additional desirable interior features include power windows and functional air conditioning. This makes the lightweight Elise comfortable enough for daily use or spirited weekend outings.
Driver Interface and Instrumentation
The driver directly interfaces with the car through a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel. Instrumentation is clear and concise, featuring a 160-mph speedometer and a 10k-rpm tachometer. A small digital display provides essential information, minimizing distraction from the primary gauges. The low reading of 22,000 indicated miles further solidifies this car’s rarity in today’s market.
Powertrain and Performance Specs
Propelling this featherweight chassis is a transverse 1.8-liter 2ZZ-GE inline-four engine. This unit was famously sourced from Toyota, delivering a factory rating of 190 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. Power is exclusively routed to the rear wheels via a crisp six-speed manual transaxle. Crucially, this specific car is reportedly equipped with a limited-slip differential. The LSD helps maximize traction during hard acceleration out of corners, a major benefit for true enthusiasts. Furthermore, recent maintenance, including fluid changes and an O2 sensor replacement, confirms its mechanical readiness.
The Continuing Appeal of the 2005 Lotus Elise
The enduring appeal of the Elise stems from its unwavering commitment to driver involvement. This particular 2005 Lotus Elise 22k-Mile example, with its recent service history and desirable modifications, stands out. It offers a unique connection between car and driver, a sensation often lost in modern sports cars. This machine is a testament to the idea that less weight fundamentally equals more fun.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
