Ian (and Steve), I completely agree that it sounds like a crazy and probably fatal marketing philosophy to pursue. Nor do I doubt the handling capabilities of and joy in driving an Elise. But then that’s because it’s a kart with an eggshell around it.
However “…the Porsche handles like a sack of SH**!”: When have you last driven a late-model 911, Ian? I drove a friend’s fairly new one recently and was mightily impressed, especially by ‘detail’ like the most exquisite, ultra-short manual gear change. Granted, I didn’t push it anywhere near the limit to find the drawbacks of the layout, but then these were public roads. Granted also that it has way too much power – far, far more than could ever be used on a public road (apart from storming down autobahns), which is of course an aspect it shares will all so-called supercars and one that ultimately makes them all ridiculous. On the other hand, I see the Elise as a “track car” (minus the track safety equipment) that’s therefore similarly poorly suited to public road use – zero occupant protection etc.
So while I could have a Porsche if I really wanted but just don’t feel the desperate urge or see the point, I feel the same about the Elise for said other reasons. And that’s simply because kart ‘track days’ and racing are so much more accessible than long circuits for cars, which to me would be the only point in having an Elise. Besides, then I might as well have a track-only Caterham.
Meanwhile, I recognise the qualities in a 911, worlds apart from the Elise as they are. The feeling (and fact) of solidity and just how beautifully everything works are aspects that a Lotus could never match. That’s ultimately why the new strategy will fail.
You owe me an answer on another matter, Sir!
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