Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Both versions of the Elise use a 1.8-litre engine. It gives 134bhp in the S, but the R's supercharger boosts the output to 189bhp. There's also a supercharged SC version, which delivers a stunning 218bhp. It delivers more performance and more low-end pull. All engines make the featherweight Elise terrifically fast, though you have to rev them hard to unlock their power.

Ride & Handling 5 out of 5 stars
The Elise set new standards for cars of this type with its superlative grip and a surprisingly comfortable ride. Its sharp, accurate steering is more communicative than the average after-dinner speaker. The suspension is not rock-solid, while country roads can be attacked with verve. The brakes are a perfect match for the pace. Be wary of unsettling the rear if you lift the throttle mid-corner.

Refinement 2 out of 5 stars
Don’t expect the Elise to have a cosseting, hushed cabin. Even with the optional hard top in place, wind noise whistles around the cockpit and the engine produces a constant drone, which can prove extremely tiresome over long distances. All of the controls feel precise and well weighted, however.

Buying & Owning 4 out of 5 stars
The idea of possessing a Lotus as an everyday car used to be completely ridiculous. The Elise, however, gives excellent fuel economy for such a sporting car. Its residuals are strong and it comes with a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty.

Quality & Reliability 4 out of 5 stars
Lotus cars of old had a reputation for being fragile. The Elise blows that right out of the water. Its plastic composite body is tough as old boots and the aluminium chassis has proved to be rugged. The 1.8-litre engine supplied by Toyota is bullet-proof. The build quality of the Elise is top-notch.

Safety & Security 2 out of 5 stars
The Elise comes with an alarm and immobiliser as standard. On the safety side you get driver and passenger airbags, plus anti-lock brakes as standard, but you have to specify traction control at extra cost.

Behind The Wheel 4 out of 5 stars
There’s not a whole heap to look at from behind the wheel of an Elise. What there is, though, is brilliantly laid out in a neat, race-car-style dash with digital read-outs. The steering wheel is fixed, but the seat is comfortable and the driving position is superb. Cabin stowage is minimal, however.

Space & Practicality 2 out of 5 stars
Many people will scoff at the concept of a mid-engined sports car being even remotely practical. However, the Lotus does have a boot behind the engine which is big enough for two soft bags and there’s room in the cabin for two six-footers. What does let things down is the fiddly hood that takes an age to raise and lower.

Equipment 1 out of 5 stars
This car is about excitement rather than comfort, so whichever version you buy, you'll get a similarly miserly amount of kit. All versions come with alloy wheels, central locking, leather steering wheel and a CD player. There's a variety of option packs to fill the gaps, but you'll still pay more on top if you want air-conditioning.

For: The Elise is an exercise in making the bare minimum all you'll ever want from a sports car. Fantastic to drive, with jaw-dropping performance, delicious steering and stunning grip

Against: The refinement and hood design let the side down, and it's not easy to get in and out of, but more worrying is the lack of security and safety equipment

In a nutshell: A proper sports car, full of sensation. Demands dedication for day-to-day use, but it’s worth the effort.