New stuff:
1. This third-generation Elise isn't radically new, not in the way the second was with its all-new body panels formed from heat-pressed, pre-formed glassfibre sheets instead of the original's hand-laid method.
2. Yes, the engine is new – and taller, thanks to its Valvematic induction system which, like BMW's Valvetronic, mechanically alters the valve lift to act as the throttle. Both camshafts have variable timing, and the inlet manifold has a variable volume. This is one variable engine.
3. Capacity has shrunk from 1796cc to 1598 but power stays the same at 136bhp, reached at 6800rpm. Torque is 118lb ft, there's now a six-speed gearbox
Suspension and steering unchanged. |
