United Kingdom vs UK — 2015 vs 1996
| Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 | Elise S1 1.8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 189 hp | 118 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 122 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,798 cc | 1,796 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.2 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 140 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.9 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,980 lbs | 1,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,301 mm | 2,300 mm |
| Length | 3,785 mm | 3,726 mm |
| Units Produced | 850 | 10,746 |
| Original MSRP | $48,500 | $39,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $58,000 | $48,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 5/10 |
The 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 brings lighter weight and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Lotus heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
Tracing the evolution of the Lotus Elise Sport 190 from 2015 to 1996 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Lotus. The 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 189 hp compared to 118 hp, a 71-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Elise Sport 190 uses a 1.8L Supercharged I4 displacing 1,798 cc, while the Lotus Elise relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,796 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 edges ahead at 4.2 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. The Lotus Elise carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 382 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 850 units built, the 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 is considerably scarcer than the Lotus Elise's 10,746 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2015 Lotus Elise Sport 190 Sport 190 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.