Shmidt.Art - Lotus - Lotus Elise S1 - 1990s

A premium A1-format technical poster dedicated to the Lotus Elise S1 (1996) — one of the purest lightweight sports cars ever created, combining minimalist engineering, exceptionally low weight, and legendary Lotus handling.

This artwork showcases a highly detailed multi-view technical illustration, including front, rear, side, and top perspectives, complete with precise dimensions and key specifications. A refined tribute to a modern British sports car icon.

Highlights

Pure Lightweight Sports Car
Introduced in 1996, the first-generation Lotus Elise was developed around the philosophy of reducing weight rather than relying on excessive power, resulting in an exceptionally responsive and engaging driving experience.

Lightweight Aluminium Chassis
At the heart of the Elise S1 is its revolutionary bonded and extruded aluminium chassis, providing excellent structural rigidity while keeping overall weight remarkably low at approximately 725 kg in early versions.

1.8-Litre Mid-Mounted Engine
The original Elise S1 is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre Rover K-Series inline-four engine producing approximately 118 hp (120 PS / 88 kW), mounted behind the cabin and paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Impressive Performance
Thanks to its exceptionally low weight, the Elise could accelerate from 0–100 km/h in approximately 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of around 202 km/h (126 mph), demonstrating the effectiveness of Lotus’s lightweight philosophy.

Legendary Lotus Handling
A mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, double-wishbone suspension, low centre of gravity, and minimal mass give the Elise exceptional steering feedback, balance, and agility.

Distinctive Julian Thomson Design
The Elise S1 features compact proportions, flowing bodywork, exposed round headlights, pronounced wheel arches, and a low open-top profile that make it instantly recognizable as one of the defining British sports cars of the 1990s.

Technical Precision
Accurate dimensional layout inspired by original engineering schematics, emphasizing the car’s compact proportions, lightweight construction, mid-engine architecture, and minimalist mechanical philosophy.

Condition

New — professionally printed on high-quality paper.

Dimensions

A1 format (594 × 841 mm)

Perfect For

Lotus collectors and enthusiasts
Lotus Elise and lightweight sports car fans
British automotive enthusiasts
1990s performance car collectors
Automotive engineering and design enthusiasts
Premium home, office, garage, or showroom décor
A unique gift for any Lotus enthusiast