Models · Lotus
Lotus Exige S2 buying guide
The second Exige, a fixed-roof coupé based on the S2 Elise, built from 2004 with the Toyota 2ZZ-GE engine, and from late 2005 in supercharged Exige S form. A facelift and more power came for 2010.
The versions
- Exige (2004): 1.8 (1,796cc) Toyota 2ZZ-GE, 189bhp at 7,800rpm
- Exige S (late 2005): supercharged 1.8, 218bhp; 240bhp from the 2010 model year
- 240R (2005, 50 built): supercharged, 243bhp; Cup 260 (2010): 257bhp
- Six-speed Toyota manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive; Touring and Sport packs and many special editions
What to check on a S2 Exige
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Gearbox synchromesh
What to look for: Start the test drive from cold. Change into third, and from third down to second, several times, and note any crunching or baulking.
Why it matters: Synchromesh wear on the Toyota six-speed shows as a crunch around third gear. It isn't usually a sign of imminent failure, but a rebuild may be needed. Baulking from third to second can also come from the gear cables needing adjustment. Specialists say the gearbox handles up to about 270hp, so heavily tuned cars put it under more strain.
The original radiator
What to look for: Look through the front grille mesh at the radiator. An all-black radiator is the original. Check for coolant stains around its ends and that the coolant level is correct.
Why it matters: The original radiator has plastic end caps that peel back and leak over time, which can lead to coolant loss. An all-aluminium replacement is the usual fix, and it needs the front clamshell removed to fit. The 2ZZ-GE engine itself has a strong reputation, and the supercharger is described as fault-free.
Underside and tub damage
What to look for: Look at the car on a ramp with the undertray removed if possible. Note any scrapes from speed bumps or steep driveways, and any sign of repair to the aluminium tub.
Why it matters: Light scuffs are normal on a car this low, but anything more than grazing needs explaining. The bonded aluminium tub can't be repaired like a steel shell, and serious tub damage almost always means a car was written off, so a history check is part of this.
Also in the full guide
- Signs of track use and the geometry
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the S2 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.