The LOTUS ELISE (1996-19) 2DR CONVERTIBLE 1.8 189 R is a two-seat sports car rather than a practical hatchback or family car. In the UK used-car market it sits in an enthusiast-focused corner, offering open-top motoring and a more involving drive than mainstream convertibles. mycarcheck.com has recorded 16 checks covering seven distinct VINs, so this is a modest sample, not a market-wide picture. Those checks indicate an average private-sale valuation of £11,300, average recorded mileage of 35,000, and annual mileage around 1,000; the average number of previous keepers is 2.6. These figures offer a useful guide, though individual cars vary. Best suited to enthusiasts and weekend drivers, the Elise rewards its light, direct feel and compact size, but limited space and a firm ride make it less appealing for commuting or carrying passengers. Against rivals such as the Mazda MX-5, it is more focused and exclusive, with Lotus character.