Is the Lotus Elise a good investment?

The thesis

The S2 Elise with Toyota 2ZZ-GE 1.8 (192bhp, 2004–2011) is the sweet spot: more robust and usable than K-series S1s, yet still pure analogue with hydraulic steering and sub-900kg weight. Market data shows S2 111Rs trade £18,000–£30,000, while special SC (supercharged) variants reach £42,000+ median. The 111R sits below the SC but above base S2s, offering significant headroom. Expert commentary suggests the S2 hasn't yet acquired the 'modern classic gloss' of the S1, making it undervalued. With Elise production ended (2021), rarity will tighten supply.