Lotus draws crowds with new Elise

One of the most impressive vehicles at this years Melbourne International Motor Show was the sporty 2001 Lotus Elise.

Without veering too far away from last year's design, the differences Lotus has made to the new car are aesthetically pleasing while retaining that unmistakable Lotus look.

Overall, it is much sharper. The new headlight design and re-sculpted tail-end give the tiny sportster an even more aggressive stance.

The bonnet/engine cover is similar to last year, complete with mesh covering allowing ample air intake. These mesh bonnet coverings have been given a more curved look, however, adding to the smooth visage.

This years model sits even closer to the ground (10mm lower), which reduces the drag co-efficient dramatically, allowing for better road-holding and higher top-speeds.

One of the major gripes with the 1999/2000 Elise was that it was too hard to get in and out of. Access to the cockpit was downright difficult for larger people.

This has been addressed in the new Elise and having stepped into both models personally, I can say entering and exiting the 2001 sportster is much easier than before.

The look of the new Elise is much more aggressive and together with the larger wheels (16" front, 17" rear) will put any contenders back in their place.

Principle designer of the new Elise, Steve Crijns, spoke about some of the changes: "We wanted to create a shape that would reflect an incredible driving experience.

"The car has to look a hell of a lot more exciting than your everyday two-seater cabrio. Unnecessary bulk, even if it's for stylistic effect, creates weight, and a Lotus must be light."

He's not wrong. The car is an amazing 710kg. That's less than half the weight of a new VX Holden Commodore at about 1550kg.

In the real world, when you have a car this light, it really doesn't matter how powerful an engine you dump in it - it will go quickly regardless.

Speaking of engines, the Elise is driven by a mid-mounted, 1.8-litre (1796cc), all aluminium, 16-valve power-plant. The DOHC engine also takes advantage of multi-point, sequential fuel-injection for razor-sharp response.

This high-tech little engine puts out only 120bhp - it may sound soft compared to larger cars, but how many can claim a 0-100km/h in just 5.7 seconds? Not many.

Maximum torque occurs at 4,500rpm with output at 168Nm. Top speed is a tad over 200km/h.

Add to this cars impressive power-to-weight ratio what Lotus claims is the "...best handling car" and you have a very tasty proposition for would-be weekend racers or those who just want some British racing pedigree.

The new Lotus Elise was one of the brighter stars of the motor show and this bodes well the for the British marque.

There will be a limited amount of Lotus Elises heading to Australia, arriving no earlier than the third quarter (October) of this year. The brand-new Elise is expected to fetch around $80,000.