The second-generation Elise was the first Lotus to be fully computer-designed and built on an Opel Speedster base. These cars have many common chassis parts, although the engines are completely different. The new Toyota / Yamaha aluminum 1.8 L engines with VVC (Variable Valve Control) technology used by Elise develop up to 192 hp. This enables the car to reach a speed of 100 km in 4.7s with. The VVC system at ~ 6,000 rpm radically changes the valve opening times and makes it feel as if the car has two different engines.
The second-generation Elise was the first Lotus to be fully computer-designed and built on an Opel Speedster base.
The second generation Elise was very warmly received by the media: in 2001, Autocar magazine named it the best driver's car, and Top Gear magazine named it the best sports car in 2004.