A nice low miles one just came up in the US, but has a salvage title, as the cost of replacing the front clamshell is insanely high in the US.
I’ve seen some posts on this on the US Lotus forums.
Weird as replacing the clamshell is not difficult for a DIY capable person.
The body parts are made of fibreglass, so anyone with some experience in boat repairs (or Corvette body work) should be able to fix up any minor damage.
👎🍿
I would not hesitate to buy a salvage title Elise.
Because like you said, insurance companies are quick to total them even with some relatively "minor" clam damage.
As long as any impact did not damage the frame, I'd be all over one.
Years ago you could pick up repaired, salvage titled Elise's for right around $25k give or take. Not so much anymore...
There was a place in south Florida called Wirewheel Motorsports that would sell salvage Elise's that they repaired (along with a lot of other interesting stuff).
https://www.wirewheel.com/
I would not hesitate to buy a salvage title Elise.
Because like you said, insurance companies are quick to total them even with some relatively "minor" clam damage.
As long as any impact did not damage the frame, I'd be all over one.
Got tired of your stock E46? Lol.