Models · Lotus
Lotus Exige S1 buying guide
The first Exige was a fixed-roof, track-focused coupé based on the S1 Elise, built in 2000 and 2001 with a high-output Rover K-series engine. Only 583 were made.
The versions
- 1.8 (1,796cc) Rover K-series four-cylinder, 177bhp at 7,800rpm
- VHPD version and factory upgrade kit, about 190 to 192bhp
- Fixed-roof coupé with front and rear aerodynamic spoilers, steel rear subframe and uprights
- Five-speed manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive, no traction or stability control
What to check on a S1 Exige
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Cooling system and head gasket
What to look for: With the engine cold, look in the coolant expansion tank for an oily, emulsified layer, and check the level is correct. Look for coolant leaks at the radiator behind the front grille, especially at its plastic end caps, and at the expansion tank cap.
Why it matters: Head gasket failure is the K-series's known weakness, though specialists say its reputation is overstated when the coolant is kept topped up. The system holds little coolant and can trap air, so a small leak causes overheating quickly. The plastic radiator end caps and expansion tank caps fail; an aluminium radiator is the usual upgrade. Ask whether the known head gasket fixes have been applied.
Cambelt age
What to look for: Check the history for the date and mileage of the last cambelt change, and for servicing every 6,000 miles or six months.
Why it matters: The cambelt interval was originally five years, then reduced to four years or 36,000 miles because oil or coolant contamination can degrade the belt. Many Exiges cover low mileages, so age usually makes it due.
Rear subframe and uprights
What to look for: From underneath, look at the steel rear subframe and the rear suspension uprights where they join the aluminium chassis. Look for bubbling, white powdery deposits and crusty joints.
Why it matters: Steel joined to aluminium, with moisture and dirt in the joints, causes electrolytic corrosion, which has destroyed suspension mountings on some cars. Used and replacement subframes are available, and a clean, protected rear end is a sign of a car that's been looked after.
Also in the full guide
- The aluminium tub
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the S1 Exige
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
Other generations
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Lotus.