2002 Lotus Elise 1.8L Petrol · YR02 YMF

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, though the most recent inspection indicates a shift from a clean record to emerging maintenance requirements. The November 2025 test at 11,151 miles resulted in advisories for all four tyres due to cracking and perishing. This suggests that while the vehicle remains mechanically sound enough to pass, the rubber components are reaching the end of their structural life due to age and stationary storage rather than mileage-. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 465 miles per year. Data shows a significant gap in usage between September 2015 and July 2021, where the car covered only 62 miles over six years. Another notable interval exists between 2021 and 2025, with just 90 miles recorded. This sporadic use suggests the car has been stored for long periods, which often leads to the degradation of fluids, seals, and rubber-based components that are not captured by a standard MOT test. A buyer must prioritise a physical inspection of the tyre set, as the 2025 advisories confirm dry rot across the board. Given the low mileage and long stationary periods, the buyer should also scrutinize brake components for seized calipers or perished hoses and suspension bushings for cracking. The structural integrity of the chassis and mounting points should be checked for corrosion, as low-use vehicles can suffer from moisture-related rust in areas where airflow is restricted.