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Exactly. In the past I owned a 2007 Miata and a number of people gave me crap about it. My response was, I bought it because it's what "I wanted" and I don't give a damn what you think.
@@garyleibitzke4166 Im just looking for a MX5 right now in Ireland to use as a track car! We intend to strip it and put a cage in it and give it a slight boost power wise and upgrade running gear. It’s such a good little driving car. We expect to be about £15000 into it after completion and for smile per £’s it extremely good valued for money considering my mates EVO7 is about £75000 deep as it sits now
@@garyleibitzke4166I actually bought one because I knew it'd annoy people (well my friends who are into cars/track days) 😂. I've had more compliments than people saying hairdressers car or anything like that. Mines an RF and I daily drive it. Also in Ireland with all that rain 😂
You are part of the reason i drive an Lotus…. I watched all of your Lotus content to live vicariously through you. Lotus is being small brained in their treatment of you. Thank you Jayemm
I'm not sure how you do it James, but whether you're reviewing something outrageous or just chatting away about various models of Lotus, I'm always fully engaged and find myself chuckling away at your little anecdotes. You're my favourite channel. Keep it up Sir :)
I had one of the last v8 Esprits. Owned it for 3 years not a single thing went wrong with it. Spent quite a bit on it but that was all performance upgrades and a hobby. Wish I'd kept it.
I raced an Evora GT4 in a 24 hour race at Barcelona. It was quite amazing the attention the Lotus got in the paddock, people were walking past the Ferrari's etc to have their picture taken with the Lotus. I think many people in the UK think of Lotus as one step up from a kit car but in Europe they are seen as a proper super car.
As an owner of a 1973 Lotus Europa John Player Special I can’t imagine driving anything else for pleasure. The handling is beyond belief, and it’s a fast little car. Sure, you have to be willing to take excellent care of it, but it’s such an addictive car that you don’t care. It’s also won’t bankrupt you.
Love your honesty James. Wouldn't have any other way. It's made me fully aware of what I'm getting into, buying my first Lotus (2014 Evora S) next Friday. Excited for the drive and happy to know there will be problems but I can live with that. The search and buying process has happened naturally and fluidly. So my opinion is, definitely buy any Lotus that simply comes your way.
16:10 Would it make sense to buy a 300 Sport, put the original wheels and tires into storage and put a different, somewhat tastefully period correct wheel on it that you can actually get tires for? That way you could drive it and enjoy it without having to worry about finding new rubber.
Yes, get an Esprit turbo. Up to you what car you get, but I'd happily watch. I enjoy your videos, and like the fact you're so honest about faults. Maybe lotus owners should also buy a Lexus, just to balance out the dealership experience?
I only discovered your channel a month or so ago Jay, and Im enjoying your content more than any other auto channel on the planet! I can hardly exist and go about my business here on earth, without constantly thinking about buying a Lotus, and after taking an Evora for a test drive last week I can think of nothing else.... and that thinking is my new Joy, alongside your channel, which is enormously fun!! Long live Lotus!
I owned an Exige 410 Sport for three years, sold it in December. Such a great little car - and really fast on its feet. Plus the sound is amazing, especially if you install the mod to constantly open the exhaust valves 😀 Took a lot of abuse on and off the race track, plus excessive Autobahn top speed runs - never had any issues besides eating rear up rear tires and Michelin not producing enough Pilot Sport Cup2 in the relevant Lotus size. But Nankang released some fitting Semis now so everyone should be all set. And if you're searching for imrpovements for the 410 Sport: Get a Cup wing and a komo tec carbon aero front splitter. These updates are working wonders regarding high speed stability.
@James, I say get the Espirit you always wanted. You’ll educate us on a car out of circulation and fulfill a bucket list experience! Enthusiasts like me will tune in and, depending upon your experiences, you may single-handedly increase the value of those cars by increasing demand. Enjoy the search! I always do. 😁
Making honest remarks about companies is something that can be used as critique to move forward with, and much better than heads in the sand or misinformation until the company goes bust…. Another great vid thanks for sharing, yes turbo esprit content would be interesting but do you need to buy one to make it? Perhaps borrowing I broader range of cars would give a wider appeal.
I had my Lotuses when Colin Chapman was still running things. Never had a problem; as you pointed out, it's all very different now. In just the last two years, I've tried to help friends who wanted to buy new cars and the service was so appallingly bad that both people went elsewhere. One has a new Mercedes-Benz and the other a Lexus and both are very happy. Lexus gave me a watch to say "Thanks" for the introduction: and I got a free service for my classic 220 from Mercedes-Benz.
An Elise/Exige is one of the best possible cars for UK roads. The only weakness is that it makes it really really hard to find something to move on to. Everything else feels heavy, lardy and disconnected in comparison.
Nothing will ever be as raw and rewarding to drive as a Lotus. Nothing will also be more rife with troubles as a Lotus. It's a real love-hate relationship.
I sold my Exige S V6 and bought an F430. Although I love the Ferrari, boy do I miss my Exige! There's a lot of similarity between them. Both are lightweight, mid-engined, 2-door, 2-seater, 4.0 second, non-turbo beasts. Both have a superb chassis, precision steering with great feedback. Both sound great, turn heads, and will leave a massive smile on your face. But the Lotus will do it for half the price!
Started watching you, because of the lotus content and felt in love for the brand. Im now 20 years old and have a dream to sometime own an Lotus as my first car. Would love to see content about it. No matter if its about the Esprit, Elan or an Emeya/Eletre.
Great video James - I had a Lotus Elise 2020 model for 20 years & it was superb - it was reliable & I had it serviced with the Lotus dealer in Northwich yearly; I only sold it 2 years ago cos I wanted an open 2 seater so I bought a new Morgan Plus Four CX
A fleet update would be brilliant! No doubt you're waiting for the perfect moment for it, but that would be brill! All the best from another petrol head in east anglia, Sam.
As the driver of a slightly scruffy Excel, the one you saw at Rustival, you should definitely buy a Turbo Espri, regular use will keep most of the problems away and a modern aftermarket EFI conversion makes a big difference. My Excel will probably get one if I keep it long term. A friend still drives his Esprit at 80 years old (and still has the Excel he bought in '86) and won't give it up. I also have an Esprit S3, a modified one that is becoming less modified. The air ride is gone, but the 24V Busso will be staying for now, albeit with something that resembles in intake system, rather than open venturis.
Nailed it JayEmm! Precisely why I own an Evora 400. Every single drive is amazing. If you know, you know. Period. Except my only issue with your review is that in ~5 years/~25,000 miles ownership I’ve had zero problems so it’s been a brilliant experience. Lucky me!
Jay, you so deserve the 350k subs. Great content. 👏👏👏 The Elise, along with a Defender are the cars that never were for me. I’m physically disabled and had to retire very early a couple of years ago and so those dream cars will remain just that. 😔 So love my dream for me. Get that Lotus
I got a '01 Elise S2 this summer. Although I had the chance to see a lot of them in the garage that I used to repair my 4200, you and other youtubers praising Lotus for their lightweight, great handling cars were the catalyst for my decision. And you were right. Thanks.
Another great video. I am a massive Lotus fan, with the Esprit being a true dream car for me. I regularly toy with the idea of an Excel. So, I, for one, would look forward to any Lotus content.
James another great video!! Thanks for the gift at the end. I'd love to see you get another Lotus if it's what you want to do!! Personally my vote would be for an Elise 220.
I vividly remembered going to the Lotus dealer in Portland,Oregon,USA and getting the lesson of Elise entry and exit before they would discuss selling me one. Great times!!
Lotus Esprit V8 1991/1992 era in Red. Been in one when I was 15 when it was new. Greatest car ride I’ve ever been in. As a passenger could feel everything. Still not repeated. Driven loads of high performance cars since of various eras. Need four seats to justify buying one now.
Do you think that now with the Emira being sold in far greater numbers than the Evora, whilst essentially being a Evora 400 that future and current Evora owners will have a easier time getting parts, servicing etc?
Excellent video as always. The car I’d like to see you buy James is the car that I would buy if I had room in my garage - a Lotus Elise 1.6. Why? Well, like me you have cars that are so fast that they would get you into serious trouble if you used all the performance on the road. But you really can use all the power in the slowest Elise, red line it in any gear and stay out of prison! Just a suggestion..😀
I gotta give one of these a go. I like everything about modern Lotus cars except for the awkward 3/4 size and the cheap interior bits. But you are right, it’s all about the drive. The rest can be looked past if the experience is good enough
James, I always thoroughly enjoy your Lotus deep-dives. It always feels like an honest chat over pints (though I recall you're tee-total) about what Lotus is, could, or should be. I've commented before about having an Elise 111S. To me it feels like peak Lotus : all of the magic that can be acceptably DIY-maintained by an average bloke. I love the idea of an early Evora but you've already dealt with upkeep issues. I use the Elise seldom and I'm not their target customer as I'll never buy a new Lotus, but to be without it would feel like I'd given up on my car passion. Also, nice dismount : as a man in his mid '50s I suspect I make noises while boarding and exiting my Elise :D
I’ve always loved Lotus, right from a kid back in the 70s when I saw an Elan S2 being driven really hard around a corner, and marvelling at the speed it came past at. I’ve come close to owning and Excel a couple of times and may still look for one in the future. I drove a lot of Excels and Esprits during the late 80s and early 90s, when I worked in car electronics and really enjoyed them. I do drive a 911 though, but it’s my daily and I use it for work, doing roughly 500+ miles a week, but in fairness I love it. An Excel would make a great classic to add to my garage going forward, and an Elise would be a great track car, so I’m fairly sure I’ll own a Lotus in the near future.
You step out the same way as I do in my MK1 Elise with hardtop. And I weigh 97 kg and I am 1.82m. And the Elise is far narrower. I enjoyed your video as I always do. 😄 The Elise is acccompanied now (after 15 years Lotus )by an Alpine . And I love that car too
Totally agree. I own an Emira V6 FE. Fantastic car. Never mechanically let me down... Electrics on the other hand..... And having to deal with Hethal to get parts and authorisation for repairs.....
Nearly bought a Lotus Esprit in the early 80s but over come with urge to be sensible and bought a house instead 😢😢😢, at 6ft 2in it was fun getting in and out of.
Love your reviews. Reality vs everything else. Enjoy your content. I recently purchased a Alfa Romeo 4C and I get in and out of the car in my garage😂, hard to look cool getting out of the thing! Gassing up is usually done later at night
Yes, one could get different rims for Esprit with tyre size which is more widely available. A bit strange reason to not consider that car model. Much bigger problem for me would be safety, based on plastic+wood construction of the car Tavarish had.
@@pffyespff I think Tavaresh is not entirely right about the safety of the Esprit. Try to search for photos of crashed Lotus Esprits and you will see that it is very rare for the A or B pillars to be damaged. They are durable, but like any other fiber (glass, kevlar - as in Epsrit, or carbon) when cut with a saw, it will break very easily - by design, the fiber is not intended to counteract the damage caused by the saw. I think Esprits are as safe as any other cars made with a fiber technology.
I own a 350. Only thing changed is the exhaust (capristo). It drives so good, and because it is light the handling and brakes are super. I wanted to change to a 997.2 RS but at three times the current price for the same power to weight… Given that it is low and wide it also looks much better than competitors in its price range. I came from an Ariel atom and compared to that it feels like a Maybach
As a fit average-tall woman (167 cm), I feel really lucky to basically fit in without any drama on the driver's side of any Louts and I don't fancy any Ferrari, I want a Lotus, it's so much more special, and unique. To be perfectly honest, my arms are a bit too weak to drive my Elise fast for more than 20 minutes but it's so much fun :P I'm also afraid of what the brand is becoming, I love the old Lotus' vipes but we'll see
Agree with you about getting in in the left hand side. Owned an Elise for 10 years and as the driver you get used to folding yourself into the driver's seat. Whenever i had to get in on the passenger side it was a struggle. Getting out was even harder unless i unclipped the roof (but that's cheating). In 10 years I never had any problems with the 189 bhp toyota engine or gearbox or electrics. The only issue was the roof which leaked around the edges. I strongly recommend any sport car enthusiast to buy one. Also, presuming that you can get into the thing, once inside, they are comfortable and ride surprisingly well for such a low, light, small car.
I was hard pressed between an Aston and a Lotus until you compared your Evora and a Vantage. In a comment you convinced me to buy an Evora (the other choice was an Esprit), so thank you! Also, my personal dream is still a Guigiaro era Esprit in Essex Blue.
The Esprit is iconic. I friend here in California bought one and is currently having the engine rebuilt - simply due to wear and tear. Looking forward to driving it.
James... Buy that Eleanor car, Esprit Turbo and because of your location then beg GST to look after it for you.....then you won't regret it.... Or play it safe and get another Evora, maybe an early one. 8 years on and never regret once owning mine. Great video again and absolutely right in what your saying about Lotus...🙁 #bobblehatownerbutdontcare...
The Father in Law has had Two. The first one they drove to Africa with Cannonball. The Mother in Law actually Dailyed it driving 40 minutes to work and back. One of the Purest Driving Experiences you can have out of any car. Steering was as direct as any car, the handling throughthe corners was better thanany Porsche could dream of. The Engine wasn't particularly fast, especially compared too today's cars but was the most engaging with throttle response that was Electric after 4k all the way to 8k. Definitely not a car for the Faint hearted and an Uprated ECU was the best Mod as the fuelling was never the best also they came as 175 or 190 bhp The ECU will make it a 190 bhp but will also get rid of any flatspots. Definitely a Purists car😊
@markwalton8644 exactly, true purity in design. Lotus removed any and all creature conforts as they ruined the cars ultimate cornering, braking and acceleration. It only used a tuned version of that little 1.8ltr Rover 4 pot 16 valve but due to its incredibly low kerbweight it would hit 60mph in 4 seconds! Awesome little car, a definite race car for the road with no messin.
@BlatentlyFakeName that makes a great car EVEN GREATER! Those K20s are insanely tuneable, yet still lightweight and with more torque and power (and reliability!) across the rev range! And by not swapping the engine for a much bigger, more powerful and heavier engine you are not wrecking that incredible poise, handling and cornering prowess. Sounds like the truly ULTIMATE version of that original Exige!
@markwalton8644 the only possible problem could be that I wouldn't have thought it was exactly comfortable for your poor father in law? Big mileage and an ultra hard-core Exige sounds painful? Maybe they're more practical than I think as otherwise I thought high miles would equate to needing several back operations afterwards? Hahaha! Still very fun but just maybe painful fun?
Crossing southern Germany and Switzerland quite a few times (with the roads as they were back in last century) in my Elan Sprint 5 (one of the last) was out of this world, unbelievable.
Enjoyed watching this Jay, and when you mentioned that you are based in East Anglia-and then Norfolk it confirmed something I was wondering about. I thought I recognised some of the roads that you use-but thought that I was probably mistaken and it was just because they were country roads-turns out I probably do recognise them. Until I retired in 2012 I had worked since 1981 for a company based in Kings Lynn, my parents lived in East Harling, then Geldeston, and finally Beccles-so I almost undoubtedly had driven-and ridden motorcycles-around some of the roads you use…….
There was a white/red 1981 Lotus Turbo Esprit for sale right here in Cape Town a few years ago. I would have loved to buy it and just keep it in the garage and look at it! That is my dream car along with the BMW M1 (no surprise it's both by Giugiaro). My F Type today fulfills my lust for blue blooded British motoring pulchritude
I've had an Exige and an Evora S and now an Emira. The Emira is slightly better in a bunch of small ways and much better in 3 areas. Parts fabrication and built quality are clearly much higher. Exterior styling and interior. I loved the Evora S. The Emirs gives me the same feeling, yet is just better across the board. I've been quite lucky with my Lotuses as well. No problems with thr Exige and I tracked it occasionally. No issues with the Evora S except a window regulator, fixed under warranty and I tracked that one occasionally as well. And so far so good with the Emira. (Although it is very new.)
yes please. I am considering buying an interesting Lotus in celebration of getting my State Pension at the end of April. So looking forward to the Lotus's that you will be driving
I took an Elise for a test drive. I'm 6'2" and not slight. When I swapped seats with the salesman we decided it was easier to climb over into the driver's seat than get out and walk around the car! But yes, great fun to drive.
I've always loved the Evora's. Shame to hear how hard they are to get parts for. That was one of the cars on my short list to get next, but probably not now.
It's not too bad - e.g. I've had a 2 month wait for discs & pads recently, so they're by no means a regular car, but I wouldn't let it put you off (unless it would be your only means of transport). The highs are absolutely worth the lows
@@NightfallDrives - Appreciate the response especially from an owner. I have other cars I can daily so I may still give the Evora a go as it's one of my favorite cars of the modern era.
@@Kryptic1046 No problem, the Lotus Forums are also a treasure trove of info and the people and/or the archive on there can offer solutions to the majority of issues. If you're on the fence, see if you can experience a ride in one (if you haven't already) 😎
@@martinriedel1911 thanks, yes there are some good specialists out there as well, I wasn't in a rush so just didn't look at alternative options this time
Was easy to extract another 30 ish bhp just by changing the exhaust with choking cats which I wanted to change anyway to get the stainless central exit exhaust with the cheese grate grill. Triple core rad upfront kept the whole thing cooler plus k&ns. The car just ran better.
The Lotus reliability thing is massively overstated, just as it is with Alfa. My Dad has had an Elise 111S since he bought it new back in the late 90s, and it's been bombproof despite being tracked and driven regularly. I saw an Emira in the wild the other day at Caffeine and Machine, and it looked stunning - it had more presence than all the other cars there, including some 911 RS variants etc. I'm sorely tempted.
That v6 sounds Furious? What did you do to it?? Amazing sounding engine. Amazing car. I'd love a lotus. I'm not yet in a financial position to have a weekend car so my daily has to somewhat practical. BMW Z4 fits the bill but I'd love a lotus. Luv and Peace.
Ciao. In italian, Giugiaro would be “Joo jaro”. Italians use an I after a G or C to indicate that it’s a soft G or C, and in that case the I is usually silent. Like ciabatta (cha bat tah), or bon giorno (bon jor noh).
Jayemm, I love your content! Raw, no bs, from the heart straight to the point. Now about your question, which lotus to get, I wonder if you ever sampled an original elan. You did the plus2, not exactly the same. Hear me out: I got an elise about 10 years ago, and love it to bits. It’s a keeper. But two years ago I drove an old elan, and was smitten. It totally redefines nimble, agile, tactile, revolutionary. At a time when lotus was ruling F1, this was the best they made for the road. A car which even today is a benchmark for handling. Now in your collection there are mostly youngtimers, perhaps it’s time for you to get an oldtimer. Not a poseur’s car. Not the most flashy car. But one that will, at more than 50 years old, still scare modern sports cars, and get thumbs up from those that know. Gordon Murray’s benchmark for handling and steering feel? Yup. And easier to get in than an elise/exige 😉.
Though Colin chapman might not agree with your persona, I truly appreciate your enthusiasm about a car maker that has always been a dream of many and stayed a dream
Excellent video James! Always appreciate your content. I don’t see too many Lotus cars in America but I wouldn’t be opposed to owning one. I think you should buy the Esprit 👍🏻.
You’re right about Lotus Vs Porsche owners. However I’ve had three Elises (Elisi?), the last with a K20 conversion and it was brilliant. But not even the beautiful Emira will get me out of my GTS4.0. That car needs more work. The seats need to go lower, the steering wheel needs to lose those stupid controls and change shape and more revs please! Oh, and can we please have a round rev counter in the middle. I thought the Vauxhall stalks were great btw.
Lotus should have done an electric or hybrid family sized, Astra or Focus size car, focusing on efficiency and lightweight, make it fairly poshish inside so it can compete with 1 series, A class, A3 they should have done that, then James mentioned about Lotus being owned by Geely, which means Lotus could have access to the Volvo EX30, Smart #1 platform, they could do a Lotus version of that, could be good
Hi James I can still sit in an esprit turbo and look around and see the bits that are going to fall off I love them dearly but was badly burnt Emeria is lovely in many ways, yes it’s an old chassis but they have sorted the issues out and made it a bit more useable, looks great too had an amg one on order but in end lost confidence in it’s not going to tank in value as there’s so many more being made, maybe look again when markets is a bit more resolved
Thanks for the treat! You have impressive Lotus egress skills! An extremely flexible physique! Keep the genuine content coming! Hope to see your S2000 again soon!
“Abject depression”, love it 😂 I’ve only ever driven a Komo-tec ZR265 modified Elise for a weekend loaned to me by a friend, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It did however go wrong in this short time with the dash indicating something awry with the engine, but my friend gave the all clear to carry on driving it as this often occurred and wasn’t something to worry about…. New Lotus content ? not bothered either way.
A year ago I had but one car, a '16 Mazda MX-5/Miata. Then in May I bought a Jaguar 3.0 S F-Type 6mt. In February I bought another Jaguar, an '06 XJ8 VDP LWB. Now I'm thinking of adding a Caterham, small engine, 1600 is enough. Are four cars too many? I think not. My walk-out basement would be the perfect place to build such a car, and store it in winter.
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Exactly. In the past I owned a 2007 Miata and a number of people gave me crap about it. My response was, I bought it because it's what "I wanted" and I don't give a damn what you think.
@@garyleibitzke4166 Im just looking for a MX5 right now in Ireland to use as a track car! We intend to strip it and put a cage in it and give it a slight boost power wise and upgrade running gear. It’s such a good little driving car. We expect to be about £15000 into it after completion and for smile per £’s it extremely good valued for money considering my mates EVO7 is about £75000 deep as it sits now
You do realise that this is a business for him?
@@garyleibitzke4166I actually bought one because I knew it'd annoy people (well my friends who are into cars/track days) 😂. I've had more compliments than people saying hairdressers car or anything like that. Mines an RF and I daily drive it. Also in Ireland with all that rain 😂
People do give a damn though or they wouldn’t watch channels like this for other peoples opinions
You are part of the reason i drive an Lotus…. I watched all of your Lotus content to live vicariously through you. Lotus is being small brained in their treatment of you. Thank you Jayemm
Not even made it past the intro yet. Jay, the answer is YES! It has only ever been yes and it will only ever be yes.
I'm not sure how you do it James, but whether you're reviewing something outrageous or just chatting away about various models of Lotus, I'm always fully engaged and find myself chuckling away at your little anecdotes. You're my favourite channel. Keep it up Sir :)
You getting out of the Lotus was a lot more graceful than what I could do 😂
I had one of the last v8 Esprits. Owned it for 3 years not a single thing went wrong with it. Spent quite a bit on it but that was all performance upgrades and a hobby. Wish I'd kept it.
Did it not already have enough power. ???
I raced an Evora GT4 in a 24 hour race at Barcelona. It was quite amazing the attention the Lotus got in the paddock, people were walking past the Ferrari's etc to have their picture taken with the Lotus. I think many people in the UK think of Lotus as one step up from a kit car but in Europe they are seen as a proper super car.
Turbo Esprit? In white with red interior? Yes please😃
I was born in the mid-2000's, and my first pick would be the Esprit. Very cool cars, and I'd love to watch more videos on them.
As an owner of a 1973 Lotus Europa John Player Special I can’t imagine driving anything else for pleasure. The handling is beyond belief, and it’s a fast little car. Sure, you have to be willing to take excellent care of it, but it’s such an addictive car that you don’t care. It’s also won’t bankrupt you.
It’s a plastic coffin.
A motorcycle is a safer more enjoyable place to be.
You can barely even call it a car.
I think a Lotus on British roads is so much better than any Ferrari .Alpine is only competition .
Love your honesty James. Wouldn't have any other way. It's made me fully aware of what I'm getting into, buying my first Lotus (2014 Evora S) next Friday. Excited for the drive and happy to know there will be problems but I can live with that. The search and buying process has happened naturally and fluidly. So my opinion is, definitely buy any Lotus that simply comes your way.
Congratulations, a fine choice 👍😉
Congratulations. I've an Elise and have much admired the Evora for a long time. Go and make the most of the experience. Not many get the chance :)
16:10 Would it make sense to buy a 300 Sport, put the original wheels and tires into storage and put a different, somewhat tastefully period correct wheel on it that you can actually get tires for? That way you could drive it and enjoy it without having to worry about finding new rubber.
yes JayEmm buy another lotus .. and then recreate the iconic ' slightly tubby man gets in an Elise ' video .. mainly because i can relate .. lol
oh yes .. get an Esprit Turbo .. i'd watch
"slightly" hmmm...
Yes, get an Esprit turbo. Up to you what car you get, but I'd happily watch. I enjoy your videos, and like the fact you're so honest about faults. Maybe lotus owners should also buy a Lexus, just to balance out the dealership experience?
@@thedelaminatorYou couldn't make it up. 😂
I only discovered your channel a month or so ago Jay, and Im enjoying your content more than any other auto channel on the planet! I can hardly exist and go about my business here on earth, without constantly thinking about buying a Lotus, and after taking an Evora for a test drive last week I can think of nothing else.... and that thinking is my new Joy, alongside your channel, which is enormously fun!! Long live Lotus!
I owned an Exige 410 Sport for three years, sold it in December. Such a great little car - and really fast on its feet. Plus the sound is amazing, especially if you install the mod to constantly open the exhaust valves 😀 Took a lot of abuse on and off the race track, plus excessive Autobahn top speed runs - never had any issues besides eating rear up rear tires and Michelin not producing enough Pilot Sport Cup2 in the relevant Lotus size. But Nankang released some fitting Semis now so everyone should be all set. And if you're searching for imrpovements for the 410 Sport: Get a Cup wing and a komo tec carbon aero front splitter. These updates are working wonders regarding high speed stability.
@James, I say get the Espirit you always wanted.
You’ll educate us on a car out of circulation and fulfill a bucket list experience!
Enthusiasts like me will tune in and, depending upon your experiences, you may single-handedly increase the value of those cars by increasing demand.
Enjoy the search! I always do. 😁
I actually would really like to see this on the channel. More than any Ferrari 😊
Making honest remarks about companies is something that can be used as critique to move forward with, and much better than heads in the sand or misinformation until the company goes bust…. Another great vid thanks for sharing, yes turbo esprit content would be interesting but do you need to buy one to make it? Perhaps borrowing I broader range of cars would give a wider appeal.
I had my Lotuses when Colin Chapman was still running things. Never had a problem; as you pointed out, it's all very different now. In just the last two years, I've tried to help friends who wanted to buy new cars and the service was so appallingly bad that both people went elsewhere. One has a new Mercedes-Benz and the other a Lexus and both are very happy. Lexus gave me a watch to say "Thanks" for the introduction: and I got a free service for my classic 220 from Mercedes-Benz.
Thanks!
Great job as always, we love honesty above all else... john
A great watch again, good to see another Lotus on the channel
Interesting discussion, I think the short answer is yes - but in case you don't, we'll get you a decent chunk of time in the Evora 😉
An Elise/Exige is one of the best possible cars for UK roads. The only weakness is that it makes it really really hard to find something to move on to. Everything else feels heavy, lardy and disconnected in comparison.
Nothing will ever be as raw and rewarding to drive as a Lotus. Nothing will also be more rife with troubles as a Lotus. It's a real love-hate relationship.
I sold my Exige S V6 and bought an F430. Although I love the Ferrari, boy do I miss my Exige! There's a lot of similarity between them. Both are lightweight, mid-engined, 2-door, 2-seater, 4.0 second, non-turbo beasts. Both have a superb chassis, precision steering with great feedback. Both sound great, turn heads, and will leave a massive smile on your face. But the Lotus will do it for half the price!
Started watching you, because of the lotus content and felt in love for the brand. Im now 20 years old and have a dream to sometime own an Lotus as my first car. Would love to see content about it. No matter if its about the Esprit, Elan or an Emeya/Eletre.
Great video James - I had a Lotus Elise 2020 model for 20 years & it was superb - it was reliable & I had it serviced with the Lotus dealer in Northwich yearly; I only sold it 2 years ago cos I wanted an open 2 seater so I bought a new Morgan Plus Four CX
please please pleaaaaase get the Emira and I promise to watch every video you do on it, TWICE!
Yes. I’m taking my Exige 410 on its first Roadtrip of the year tomorrow and I can’t wait. They are just brilliant driving machines.
How was it ? :)
@@gabriels9977 fabulous, a brilliant sunny Sunday around the NW Scottish Highlands 😎
A fleet update would be brilliant! No doubt you're waiting for the perfect moment for it, but that would be brill! All the best from another petrol head in east anglia, Sam.
As the driver of a slightly scruffy Excel, the one you saw at Rustival, you should definitely buy a Turbo Espri, regular use will keep most of the problems away and a modern aftermarket EFI conversion makes a big difference. My Excel will probably get one if I keep it long term. A friend still drives his Esprit at 80 years old (and still has the Excel he bought in '86) and won't give it up. I also have an Esprit S3, a modified one that is becoming less modified. The air ride is gone, but the 24V Busso will be staying for now, albeit with something that resembles in intake system, rather than open venturis.
Cup 430, or a 420 Final Edition, got to be!
Nailed it JayEmm!
Precisely why I own an Evora 400.
Every single drive is amazing.
If you know, you know. Period.
Except my only issue with your review is that in ~5 years/~25,000 miles ownership I’ve had zero problems so it’s been a brilliant experience. Lucky me!
Jay, you so deserve the 350k subs.
Great content. 👏👏👏
The Elise, along with a Defender are the cars that never were for me.
I’m physically disabled and had to retire very early a couple of years ago and so those dream cars will remain just that. 😔
So love my dream for me.
Get that Lotus
Never can watch you without you bringing a smile to my face and a little lifting of heart. Thank you James🙂
I got a '01 Elise S2 this summer. Although I had the chance to see a lot of them in the garage that I used to repair my 4200, you and other youtubers praising Lotus for their lightweight, great handling cars were the catalyst for my decision. And you were right. Thanks.
Get an Exige! 350 Sport, 390 FE, 410 Sport :)
No.
Another great video. I am a massive Lotus fan, with the Esprit being a true dream car for me. I regularly toy with the idea of an Excel. So, I, for one, would look forward to any Lotus content.
James another great video!! Thanks for the gift at the end.
I'd love to see you get another Lotus if it's what you want to do!!
Personally my vote would be for an Elise 220.
I vividly remembered going to the Lotus dealer in Portland,Oregon,USA and getting the lesson of Elise entry and exit before they would discuss selling me one. Great times!!
Hi Jay. Great video as always. The next Lotus you should purchase....Carbed Turbo Esprit. I have an 85 in BRG. Fun, fast and simple to maintain!
Lotus Esprit V8 1991/1992 era in Red. Been in one when I was 15 when it was new. Greatest car ride I’ve ever been in. As a passenger could feel everything. Still not repeated. Driven loads of high performance cars since of various eras. Need four seats to justify buying one now.
Do you think that now with the Emira being sold in far greater numbers than the Evora, whilst essentially being a Evora 400 that future and current Evora owners will have a easier time getting parts, servicing etc?
Excellent video as always. The car I’d like to see you buy James is the car that I would buy if I had room in my garage - a Lotus Elise 1.6. Why? Well, like me you have cars that are so fast that they would get you into serious trouble if you used all the performance on the road.
But you really can use all the power in the slowest Elise, red line it in any gear and stay out of prison!
Just a suggestion..😀
I gotta give one of these a go. I like everything about modern Lotus cars except for the awkward 3/4 size and the cheap interior bits. But you are right, it’s all about the drive. The rest can be looked past if the experience is good enough
Your shirts' prints are amazing😊
Saw a gorgeous open Exige in red, recently. Jumped right up my bucket list!
James, I always thoroughly enjoy your Lotus deep-dives. It always feels like an honest chat over pints (though I recall you're tee-total) about what Lotus is, could, or should be. I've commented before about having an Elise 111S. To me it feels like peak Lotus : all of the magic that can be acceptably DIY-maintained by an average bloke. I love the idea of an early Evora but you've already dealt with upkeep issues. I use the Elise seldom and I'm not their target customer as I'll never buy a new Lotus, but to be without it would feel like I'd given up on my car passion. Also, nice dismount : as a man in his mid '50s I suspect I make noises while boarding and exiting my Elise :D
Love your channel. You must be the most honest reviewer out there. Keep it going. Kind regards from Scotland 🏴
I’ve always loved Lotus, right from a kid back in the 70s when I saw an Elan S2 being driven really hard around a corner, and marvelling at the speed it came past at. I’ve come close to owning and Excel a couple of times and may still look for one in the future. I drove a lot of Excels and Esprits during the late 80s and early 90s, when I worked in car electronics and really enjoyed them. I do drive a 911 though, but it’s my daily and I use it for work, doing roughly 500+ miles a week, but in fairness I love it. An Excel would make a great classic to add to my garage going forward, and an Elise would be a great track car, so I’m fairly sure I’ll own a Lotus in the near future.
Thanks J 🙏🙏. Good to see a Lotus on your channel again!
You step out the same way as I do in my MK1 Elise with hardtop. And I weigh 97 kg and I am 1.82m. And the Elise is far narrower.
I enjoyed your video as I always do. 😄
The Elise is acccompanied now (after 15 years Lotus )by an Alpine . And I love that car too
Keep on being true to yourself. We can tell & we MUCH appreciate it.
Was great to meet you at Silverstone Classic last year James. Be awesome to see you back in a Lotus again!
Totally agree. I own an Emira V6 FE. Fantastic car. Never mechanically let me down...
Electrics on the other hand.....
And having to deal with Hethal to get parts and authorisation for repairs.....
well ... its less than a year old lol
Your honesty is so refreshing in the car world 😊
Nearly bought a Lotus Esprit in the early 80s but over come with urge to be sensible and bought a house instead 😢😢😢, at 6ft 2in it was fun getting in and out of.
Love your reviews. Reality vs everything else. Enjoy your content. I recently purchased a Alfa Romeo 4C and I get in and out of the car in my garage😂, hard to look cool getting out of the thing! Gassing up is usually done later at night
Finally someone is so accurate with why we should love cars. Not numbers but the feelings.
FWIW, Esprit Sport 300 showed 315/35-17 rears when I checked. Michelin has Pilot Sport 4 in that size.
Yes, one could get different rims for Esprit with tyre size which is more widely available. A bit strange reason to not consider that car model. Much bigger problem for me would be safety, based on plastic+wood construction of the car Tavarish had.
Ah yes that's the size. The F12 is on 305s
@@pffyespff
I think Tavaresh is not entirely right about the safety of the Esprit.
Try to search for photos of crashed Lotus Esprits and you will see that it is very rare for the A or B pillars to be damaged. They are durable, but like any other fiber (glass, kevlar - as in Epsrit, or carbon) when cut with a saw, it will break very easily - by design, the fiber is not intended to counteract the damage caused by the saw.
I think Esprits are as safe as any other cars made with a fiber technology.
I own a 350. Only thing changed is the exhaust (capristo). It drives so good, and because it is light the handling and brakes are super. I wanted to change to a 997.2 RS but at three times the current price for the same power to weight…
Given that it is low and wide it also looks much better than competitors in its price range.
I came from an Ariel atom and compared to that it feels like a Maybach
As a fit average-tall woman (167 cm), I feel really lucky to basically fit in without any drama on the driver's side of any Louts and I don't fancy any Ferrari, I want a Lotus, it's so much more special, and unique. To be perfectly honest, my arms are a bit too weak to drive my Elise fast for more than 20 minutes but it's so much fun :P
I'm also afraid of what the brand is becoming, I love the old Lotus' vipes but we'll see
As always, great content and presentation. Thanks.
Agree with you about getting in in the left hand side. Owned an Elise for 10 years and as the driver you get used to folding yourself into the driver's seat. Whenever i had to get in on the passenger side it was a struggle. Getting out was even harder unless i unclipped the roof (but that's cheating).
In 10 years I never had any problems with the 189 bhp toyota engine or gearbox or electrics. The only issue was the roof which leaked around the edges.
I strongly recommend any sport car enthusiast to buy one. Also, presuming that you can get into the thing, once inside, they are comfortable and ride surprisingly well for such a low, light, small car.
I was hard pressed between an Aston and a Lotus until you compared your Evora and a Vantage. In a comment you convinced me to buy an Evora (the other choice was an Esprit), so thank you! Also, my personal dream is still a Guigiaro era Esprit in Essex Blue.
The Esprit is iconic. I friend here in California bought one and is currently having the engine rebuilt - simply due to wear and tear. Looking forward to driving it.
James... Buy that Eleanor car, Esprit Turbo and because of your location then beg GST to look after it for you.....then you won't regret it.... Or play it safe and get another Evora, maybe an early one. 8 years on and never regret once owning mine.
Great video again and absolutely right in what your saying about Lotus...🙁
#bobblehatownerbutdontcare...
I think GST would require serious persuading
@@JayEmmOnCars ....I thought of that, but one that GST know..😄👍
I always LOVED that original mk1 Exige. Such a cool looking little motor with genuine downforce, pretty much unheard of back then.
The Father in Law has had Two. The first one they drove to Africa with Cannonball. The Mother in Law actually Dailyed it driving 40 minutes to work and back.
One of the Purest Driving Experiences you can have out of any car. Steering was as direct as any car, the handling throughthe corners was better thanany Porsche could dream of. The Engine wasn't particularly fast, especially compared too today's cars but was the most engaging with throttle response that was Electric after 4k all the way to 8k. Definitely not a car for the Faint hearted and an Uprated ECU was the best Mod as the fuelling was never the best also they came as 175 or 190 bhp The ECU will make it a 190 bhp but will also get rid of any flatspots.
Definitely a Purists car😊
Guy at work had one years ago with a K20 swap. Probably worth a lot of money now. They are very rare.
@markwalton8644 exactly, true purity in design. Lotus removed any and all creature conforts as they ruined the cars ultimate cornering, braking and acceleration. It only used a tuned version of that little 1.8ltr Rover 4 pot 16 valve but due to its incredibly low kerbweight it would hit 60mph in 4 seconds! Awesome little car, a definite race car for the road with no messin.
@BlatentlyFakeName that makes a great car EVEN GREATER! Those K20s are insanely tuneable, yet still lightweight and with more torque and power (and reliability!) across the rev range! And by not swapping the engine for a much bigger, more powerful and heavier engine you are not wrecking that incredible poise, handling and cornering prowess. Sounds like the truly ULTIMATE version of that original Exige!
@markwalton8644 the only possible problem could be that I wouldn't have thought it was exactly comfortable for your poor father in law? Big mileage and an ultra hard-core Exige sounds painful? Maybe they're more practical than I think as otherwise I thought high miles would equate to needing several back operations afterwards? Hahaha! Still very fun but just maybe painful fun?
Brilliant as always. Thanks Jay.
Crossing southern Germany and Switzerland quite a few times (with the roads as they were back in last century) in my Elan Sprint 5 (one of the last) was out of this world, unbelievable.
get a turbo esprit to be different!
as an evora owner I would love to see more lotus stuff from you
Lovely video, thank you Jay. Get the Esprit----and Frankenstein it into a cafe build hotrod, the boys at Lotus would love it.
Enjoyed watching this Jay, and when you mentioned that you are based in East Anglia-and then Norfolk it confirmed something I was wondering about. I thought I recognised some of the roads that you use-but thought that I was probably mistaken and it was just because they were country roads-turns out I probably do recognise them. Until I retired in 2012 I had worked since 1981 for a company based in Kings Lynn, my parents lived in East Harling, then Geldeston, and finally Beccles-so I almost undoubtedly had driven-and ridden motorcycles-around some of the roads you use…….
There was a white/red 1981 Lotus Turbo Esprit for sale right here in Cape Town a few years ago. I would have loved to buy it and just keep it in the garage and look at it! That is my dream car along with the BMW M1 (no surprise it's both by Giugiaro). My F Type today fulfills my lust for blue blooded British motoring pulchritude
Love my Exige Sport 380, off out to meet some other owners later today 👍👍👍
I started following you back when you got the Lotus Evora, I can't believe it's been 8 yrs
I've had an Exige and an Evora S and now an Emira. The Emira is slightly better in a bunch of small ways and much better in 3 areas. Parts fabrication and built quality are clearly much higher. Exterior styling and interior. I loved the Evora S. The Emirs gives me the same feeling, yet is just better across the board. I've been quite lucky with my Lotuses as well. No problems with thr Exige and I tracked it occasionally. No issues with the Evora S except a window regulator, fixed under warranty and I tracked that one occasionally as well. And so far so good with the Emira. (Although it is very new.)
Obviously yes. From a S1 Elise owner. Love it so much shipped it to Aus when we emigrated in 2004
yes please. I am considering buying an interesting Lotus in celebration of getting my State Pension at the end of April. So looking forward to the Lotus's that you will be driving
I took an Elise for a test drive. I'm 6'2" and not slight. When I swapped seats with the salesman we decided it was easier to climb over into the driver's seat than get out and walk around the car! But yes, great fun to drive.
I've always loved the Evora's. Shame to hear how hard they are to get parts for. That was one of the cars on my short list to get next, but probably not now.
It's not too bad - e.g. I've had a 2 month wait for discs & pads recently, so they're by no means a regular car, but I wouldn't let it put you off (unless it would be your only means of transport). The highs are absolutely worth the lows
@@NightfallDrives - Appreciate the response especially from an owner. I have other cars I can daily so I may still give the Evora a go as it's one of my favorite cars of the modern era.
@@Kryptic1046 No problem, the Lotus Forums are also a treasure trove of info and the people and/or the archive on there can offer solutions to the majority of issues.
If you're on the fence, see if you can experience a ride in one (if you haven't already) 😎
@@NightfallDrivesno need to wait that long for brakes… got OEM brakes (discs and pads) within a few working-days from komotec.
@@martinriedel1911 thanks, yes there are some good specialists out there as well, I wasn't in a rush so just didn't look at alternative options this time
Buy an Exige 410! Best value in the Exige range. You might end up making money on it too.
Was easy to extract another 30 ish bhp just by changing the exhaust with choking cats which I wanted to change anyway to get the stainless central exit exhaust with the cheese grate grill. Triple core rad upfront kept the whole thing cooler plus k&ns. The car just ran better.
The Lotus reliability thing is massively overstated, just as it is with Alfa. My Dad has had an Elise 111S since he bought it new back in the late 90s, and it's been bombproof despite being tracked and driven regularly. I saw an Emira in the wild the other day at Caffeine and Machine, and it looked stunning - it had more presence than all the other cars there, including some 911 RS variants etc. I'm sorely tempted.
That v6 sounds Furious? What did you do to it??
Amazing sounding engine.
Amazing car.
I'd love a lotus. I'm not yet in a financial position to have a weekend car so my daily has to somewhat practical. BMW Z4 fits the bill but I'd love a lotus.
Luv and Peace.
yes please get the turbo Esprit! its such an icon. I'd love to see you in it. Even if it's only for a little while.
I have an evora 400 2018, and 2024 emira. I love both. My evora did not have the same problems as Jay.
Ciao. In italian, Giugiaro would be “Joo jaro”. Italians use an I after a G or C to indicate that it’s a soft G or C, and in that case the I is usually silent. Like ciabatta (cha bat tah), or bon giorno (bon jor noh).
Jayemm, I love your content! Raw, no bs, from the heart straight to the point. Now about your question, which lotus to get, I wonder if you ever sampled an original elan. You did the plus2, not exactly the same. Hear me out: I got an elise about 10 years ago, and love it to bits. It’s a keeper. But two years ago I drove an old elan, and was smitten. It totally redefines nimble, agile, tactile, revolutionary. At a time when lotus was ruling F1, this was the best they made for the road. A car which even today is a benchmark for handling.
Now in your collection there are mostly youngtimers, perhaps it’s time for you to get an oldtimer. Not a poseur’s car. Not the most flashy car. But one that will, at more than 50 years old, still scare modern sports cars, and get thumbs up from those that know. Gordon Murray’s benchmark for handling and steering feel? Yup.
And easier to get in than an elise/exige 😉.
Though Colin chapman might not agree with your persona, I truly appreciate your enthusiasm about a car maker that has always been a dream of many and stayed a dream
Excellent video James! Always appreciate your content. I don’t see too many Lotus cars in America but I wouldn’t be opposed to owning one. I think you should buy the Esprit 👍🏻.
You’re right about Lotus Vs Porsche owners. However I’ve had three Elises (Elisi?), the last with a K20 conversion and it was brilliant. But not even the beautiful Emira will get me out of my GTS4.0. That car needs more work. The seats need to go lower, the steering wheel needs to lose those stupid controls and change shape and more revs please! Oh, and can we please have a round rev counter in the middle. I thought the Vauxhall stalks were great btw.
One Elise, three Elise, One Lotus, several Lotus. A name, like Roger for exemple, doesn't have a plural :)
Lotus should have done an electric or hybrid family sized, Astra or Focus size car, focusing on efficiency and lightweight, make it fairly poshish inside so it can compete with 1 series, A class, A3 they should have done that, then James mentioned about Lotus being owned by Geely, which means Lotus could have access to the Volvo EX30, Smart #1 platform, they could do a Lotus version of that, could be good
100% disagree
No, no, no ....
@@RZM_Valkyrie Why not?
@@fonziebulldog5786 Why not?
@@tug1345because that's exactly what Lotus aren't!
Hi James
I can still sit in an esprit turbo and look around and see the bits that are going to fall off
I love them dearly but was badly burnt
Emeria is lovely in many ways, yes it’s an old chassis but they have sorted the issues out and made it a bit more useable, looks great too
had an amg one on order but in end lost confidence in it’s not going to tank in value as there’s so many more being made, maybe look again when markets is a bit more resolved
Thanks for the treat! You have impressive Lotus egress skills! An extremely flexible physique!
Keep the genuine content coming! Hope to see your S2000 again soon!
I’ve been watching since the beautiful yellow Evora days! Definitely go for that turbo Esprit! I will absolutely watch Esprit vids.
Whatever Lotus you''ll get I'll love to watch the content you make on it!
“Abject depression”, love it 😂 I’ve only ever driven a Komo-tec ZR265 modified Elise for a weekend loaned to me by a friend, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It did however go wrong in this short time with the dash indicating something awry with the engine, but my friend gave the all clear to carry on driving it as this often occurred and wasn’t something to worry about…. New Lotus content ? not bothered either way.
A year ago I had but one car, a '16 Mazda MX-5/Miata. Then in May I bought a Jaguar 3.0 S F-Type 6mt. In February I bought another Jaguar, an '06 XJ8 VDP LWB. Now I'm thinking of adding a Caterham, small engine, 1600 is enough. Are four cars too many? I think not. My walk-out basement would be the perfect place to build such a car, and store it in winter.