MacLotus's Lotus Elise Sport 190 (Series 1): Readers Rides: Grassroots Motorsports Magazine

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Readers’ Rides:
1999 Lotus Elise Sport 190 (Series 1)
Added on Sept. 21 by MacLotus

This Sport 190 was one of approximately 50 Elise’s pulled from the production line to be factory track prepared for racing. These modifications included integrated roll bar, fire suppression, removable steering wheel, racing seats/harnesses, and a 1.8L DOHC VHPD engine made by the British auto manufacturer Rover. It was also lightened to weigh a mere 1600 lbs., so it truly drives like a go-kart on steroids.

While today’s production Elise models (Series 2) come equipped with a Toyota power plant, the original models (Series 1 - 1996 to 2001) had Rover engines coupled to a 5 spd gearbox. The switch to the Toyota platform was made due to reliability issues with the Rover engines.

Because the Rover engines were so unreliable, S1 Elise owners began to search for a suitable replacement platform. One of the more popular power plants has been the Honda 2.0L Type R (K20) with 6-spd transmission. Due to the popularity of this conversion, many kits have surfaced in the UK that provide the custom parts required to make the switch.

While the Sport 190 with VHPD engine is indeed rare, the track-only toy is underpowered to say the least (approximately 175whp), or at least this owner thinks so.

I’ve decided to box-up the rare VHPD with 5 spd gearbox (storing it in my barn), and set out in search of more power/speed. This is the story of my DIY conversion to a more suitable and updated power plant.

For later comparison, here is a link to a video - Hot laps at Road America with the VHPD.

http://vimeo.com/16341266

26 updates
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David S. Wallens:: Vroom.
Sep 22, 2010 8:44 a.m.
Chebbie_SB:: Sonja Henie's Tutu ! that is a gorgeous track animal…
Dec 30, 2010 10:25 p.m.
Giant Purple Snorklewacker:: Awesome.
May 19, 2011 6:42 a.m.