Elise paint question

realrundell · #1 (**permalink**) 07-23-2008, 12:36 PM

Hi folks! I'm new to the site and was hoping someone could provide some guidance. I'm currently in the market for a pre owned Elise and have been considering a number of different colors. I have found a fair number of red models available,but I've always been leary of red in the past due to premature fading. I know paint technologies have improved over the years,but I'm having trouble talking myself into it. Has any one had any experiences with Lotus' reds that might clear up my concerns? I understand that with proper car just about any paint/color will last but,I live inthe southwest and shaded parking and regular daily use do not always coincide. Any info will be appreciated.

ace10 · #2 (**permalink**) 07-24-2008, 12:09 PM

reports of fading are not common with the lotus. the skill and technique of paint application has improved greatly over the production run of the elise/exige to a point that with the newer models it approaches that of a mass market vehicle. you will not confuse the paint on a lotus for that of a porsche. it's just not that kind of vehicle. you will see runs in the cleacoat, holidays in the paint, etc.

as you probably already know, there are many, many red options for the lotus. so given the limited number of units imported and the twenty-plus color options, it would be well advised to not wed yourself to one specific color, ie. ardent red, bourdeaux, chili, etc.

good luck.

realrundell · #3 (**permalink**) 07-25-2008, 11:59 AM

Thanks for the input. I haven't narrowed my choices,as a matter of fact I was attempting to broaden them by including the "red family" of colors. It has been a long time since owning a red vehicle and needed fresh perspective. Guess I was comparing "oranges to apples"-get it? Thanks again for the insight.