Is the Lotus Elise a good investment?

The thesis

The K-series VVC 111S offers 156bhp, sublime Lotus handling, and hardcore purity in a package that trades £18-24k—well below the Toyota-engined 111R, yet delivers near-identical driving experience. Recent market analysis highlights 111S as 'overlooked' versus S1 cars (already appreciated) and later Toyota cars (stronger money). Only 2% YoY rise confirms the cycle is nascent. Usable daily, simple mechanicals, and the K-series VVC engine (when properly maintained) is highly regarded by purists. This is the contrarian Elise bet: less reliable than Toyota-powered cars, but earlier in the appreciation curve and cheaper entry.