2008 Lotus Elise S2

Probably the rawest driving experience you can get for any price. The Lotus Elise S2 is equal parts high tech yet robustly simple. It features a ‘bonded’ aluminium chassis with a fibreglass body which result in a total kerb weight of 870kg. Under the hood lies a 1ZZ-FE engine mated to a manual 5 speed transmission from Toyota, putting out 136bhp and 172Nm. Don’t let the modest numbers fool you, its enough to send the Elise from 0-100kph in 5.8 seconds, which is only 0.1 second behind the FD2R Civic Type R.

But the beauty of the car is the handling and surprisingly comfortable ride. Thanks to the super light weight, you do not require stiff damping. Yet switching lanes in traffic on public roads will make you feel like you are riding a Mario Kart in real life.

Despite the exotic mid engine feel, the consumables are very affordable, with relatively economical parts which are the same used in several Toyota models. The exterior panels are relatively easy to touch up from light hits. This car comes up with a soft top that takes exactly under 50 seconds to erect and remove, and easily stowed in the boot. Allowing you to enjoy some top down motoring when the weather permits.

Price:  RM155,000

Engine: 1.8 liter, inline 4, NA from Toyota

Transmission: 5 speed manual from Toyota

Layout: Mid engine, rear wheel drive

Dampers: Bilstein front and rear

Tyres:

195/50/16 Toyo Proxes (Front)

225/45/17 Toyo Proxes (Rear)