2005 Lotus Elise Base

Make

Lotus

Model

Elise Base

Year

2005

Listed price

$58,990

Location

New Albany, Indiana

Transmission

Manual

Mileage

21,162 miles

When Lotus launched the Elise in 1996, it signaled a return to the brand's core principles of lightweight construction and driving purity. Named after Elisa Artioli, the granddaughter of then-chairman Romano Artioli, the Series 1 Elise was an instant sensation, boasting an extruded aluminum chassis bonded with epoxy adhesive – a revolutionary technique for a production car. The second-generation Elise, introduced in 2001, brought the car to North American shores in 2005, retaining its predecessor's featherlight philosophy while incorporating a more modern design and a reliable Toyota powertrain. This generation, often referred to as the S2, solidified the Elise's reputation as one of the most engaging driver's cars ever built, a direct descendant of Colin Chapman's "simplify, then add lightness" mantra. This 2005 Lotus Elise, with just 21,162 miles on the odometer, represents a pristine example of that critically acclaimed S2 generation. Power comes from the robust and rev-happy 1.8-liter Toyota 1ZZ-FE I4 engine, paired with a precise manual transmission, delivering an unfiltered connection between driver and road. The convertible top invites open-air exhilaration, perfectly complementing the Elise's renowned handling dynamics. For the enthusiast seeking an unadulterated driving experience, this Elise presents an exceptional opportunity to own a modern classic.