.jpg "#3. Lotus Elise SC / Exige S 240 - Combined MPG: 22")
.jpg "Introduction")
.jpg "#10. Jaguar XK Coupe - Combined MPG: 19")
_(544x408).jpg "#9. Infiniti M56 - Combined MPG: 19")
_(544x408).jpg "#8. Chevrolet Camaro SS - Combined MPG: 19")
.jpg "#7. Chevrolet Corvette - Combined MPG: 19")
.jpg "#5. Nissan 370Z - Combined MPG: 22")
.jpg "#4. Porsche 911 Carrera / Carrera S - Combined MPG: 22")
.jpg "#2. Porsche Boxster S / Cayman S - Combined MPG: 23")
.jpg "#1. Tesla Roadster - Combined MPG: 135 mpg (estimated)")
#3. Lotus Elise SC / Exige S 240 - Combined MPG: 22
To own a Lotus Elise or Exige takes a certain kind of person. Colin Chapman introduced the legendary mantra, "To add speed, add lightness," to Lotus at its inception. That belief has led to the marginally insane creation of this oversized go-kart with a Toyota powertrain. Fuel economy and engine reliability are two strong allies that you must enlist to get yourself over the rational hurdles to owning such an impractical sports car. The Elise is 2,000 pounds lighter than the heaviest car on the list (the Infiniti M56) and the Exige has the second-best power-to-weight ratio. Very extreme performance for a car that gets 20 miles-per-gallon in the city. The Elise utilizes chemically bonded aluminum to create its super-rigid chassis. The no-frills Elise does without power steering, power seats and many typical passenger car amenities. Easily the closest things to driving a racecar on the streets, the Elise and Exige have hardcore charm while still offering enviable gas mileage.
Power-to-weight ratio: 0.109 hp/lb. (Elise SC); 0.116 hp/lb. (Exige S 240)
Engine horsepower: 218 (Elise SC); 240 (Exige S 240)
Curb weight: 2,006 lbs. (Elise SC); 2,077 lbs. (Exige S 240)
Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 20/26 MPG
MSRP: $47,250