Seriously, we came out of the garage below her lab and there it was, a gleaming metallic charcoal Lotus Elise.

She said, “What’s THAT?!”

“That’s the Lotus I always tell you I want!”

“How much is it?!”

“It’s like 43,000$.” (I’m a Californian, I’m allowed to say like even if it irks you)

“Seriously?!”

“yeah…”

“Can we get one?!”

“I Love you.”

Yes, that’s how the conversation went.

So then I went on to explain some simple facts.
1. Edmunds lists a 2006 Elise at $42,990 USD.
2. 190 Horsepower
3. 0-60 MPH in under 5 seconds
4. Lotus!! Suspension, well,, like a Lotus!
5. Look at it!!!
6. The nearest competitors and their costs:

BMW M-series $49,000+ why spend more, get less?
Porsche Boxster $45,000 required if you’re a dentist, but what if you’re not!?
Honda S2000 $ 34,050 it’s boring in a wedge shape (but yes, it’s a good deal,, but Boooring!!!)

Corvette $44170+ You can spend the lowest sum for it, but at that price point, I think the tires are optional!

It’s rocking the YamaYota engine on the inside of course (built by Yamaha, badged Toyota). A sweet little Yokohama rubber fetish.

Yeowza!

Oh, and it’s more or less a convertible (there is a hard top option).

More than that, this is a car that, while exotic, provides one of the most serious rides you’ll ever set your tushie upon. So much so in fact that the experts at Edmunds list the ride quality as “more Formula One than grand touring”. Ummm, fellas, that’s a CON?!

Now I’ll admit, mine will likely skip the “Air conditioning delete” option (I’ve lived in Fresno, that’s NEVER a good idea!) But I will go with the Ipod input jack thank you very much!

Realistically, in this holiday season of giving. Let’s truly point out that if you really love someone you should get them this car. Know that, so if you don’t have one under your tree, bush, pole, or menorah, then you are truly unloved. Ummm, maybe not, but they should really be thinking of your Lotus needs more!

Oh yeah, and for the British Racing Greenies in all of us, 24 city/29 highway. Hah!!! That’s why I’ll have mine in BRG (British Racing Green).  Oh, and if these dreams never come true, I’ll just build my own damn Caterham!

Take that Mr. Cnet thinking the Lexas was a usable lead sled.