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Lotus Elise SC

Super StreetLotus
218 hp
Horsepower
914 kg
Weight
RWD
Drivetrain
2008
Year

Lotus Elise SC (Super Street)

The Lotus Elise SC is a supercharged evolution of the lightweight Elise formula, pairing a 1.8L Toyota-sourced inline-four with Lotus’ obsession for minimal mass, razor-sharp steering, and pure chassis feel. Compact, simple, and intensely focused, it’s one of the most engaging road-going sports cars ever built.

Key Specs (BoP-dependent, typical sim values)

  • Powertrain: 1.8L Toyota 2ZZ-GE inline-4 with Eaton supercharger (mid-mounted, transverse)

  • Total Output: 218 hp (162 kW)

  • Redline: ~8,000–8,500 rpm

  • Transmission: 6-speed manual

  • Weight: 914 kg curb weight

  • Dimensions: ~3,790 mm long × 1,800 mm wide × 1,150 mm tall | Wheelbase 2,300 mm

  • Tires: Performance road tires on lightweight alloy wheels

  • Brakes: Ventilated discs with ABS (market-dependent)

  • Layout: Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive

In the Simulator Feel

The Elise SC is a lightweight driver’s car that feels alive at every speed. With so little mass to move, it changes direction instantly, rides the road beautifully, and communicates grip in a way that more powerful cars simply can’t match. It’s not about brute force — it’s about rhythm, balance, and keeping momentum.

Engine & Sound: The supercharged 2ZZ delivers a crisp, energetic soundtrack with a distinctive induction whine over a hard-edged four-cylinder rasp. Low-end torque is much improved over the naturally aspirated Elise, and the powerband feels punchy and eager as the revs climb, especially toward the top end.

Handling Characteristics:

  • Cornering: Exceptionally quick turn-in and neutral balance, with just enough adjustability to rotate the car on throttle or lift.

  • Traction: Very good for the weight, but the rear can step out if you’re abrupt with throttle inputs mid-corner.

  • Braking: Strong stopping power for such a light car, with excellent feel and very short braking zones.

  • Top Speed: Respectable, but the Elise SC is far more rewarding on twisty circuits than long straights.

Driving Style Tip: Drive it smoothly and trust the chassis. The Elise SC rewards tidy lines, early commitment, and minimal steering correction. It shines at technical tracks where agility matters more than horsepower.

Livery & Aesthetics: Classic Lotus proportions, tiny dimensions, and a beautifully simple shape make the Elise SC an icon of minimalist performance. In sim form it looks purposeful rather than flashy — compact, low-slung, and instantly recognizable as a true lightweight sports car.

Whether you're carving up canyon-style circuits or chasing lap consistency, the Lotus Elise SC delivers a pure, rewarding, and deeply old-school driving experience that still feels special today.