USA vs UK — 2008 vs 1996
| Roadster Sport | Elise S1 1.8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 288 hp | 118 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 122 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 0 cc | 1,796 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 3.7 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.6 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | — | 1,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,352 mm | 2,300 mm |
| Length | 3,946 mm | 3,726 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,450 | 10,746 |
| Original MSRP | — | $39,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $48,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 5/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 2008 Tesla Roadster Sport excels in more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity, while the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 stands out for stronger collectibility, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
Putting the 2008 Tesla Roadster Sport against the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — USA versus UK. The 2008 Tesla Roadster Sport holds a clear advantage in raw power with 288 hp compared to 118 hp, a 170-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a AC Induction Electric Motor in the Tesla Roadster versus a Inline-4 DOHC in the Lotus Elise. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2008 Tesla Roadster Sport edges ahead at 3.7 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,450 units built, the 2008 Tesla Roadster Sport is considerably scarcer than the Lotus Elise's 10,746 examples. On the collector market, the 2008 Tesla Roadster Sport commands a significant premium over the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.