The Lotus Elise 340R is one of the most uncompromising road cars ever to wear number plates, and a brilliant example of Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s “simplify, then add lightness” philosophy. Built in 2000 and limited to just 340 examples worldwide, the 340R was based on the Series 1 Elise but stripped back to the essentials, with no roof, no doors in the conventional sense, exposed wheels, minimal bodywork and a featherweight construction that made it feel closer to a track special than a daily driver. Its 1.8 litre Rover K Series engine produced around 177 bhp in standard form, but thanks to its extremely low weight, performance was electric, with razor sharp steering, huge feedback and a chassis that rewarded precision.

The name “340R” originally hinted at Lotus targeting 340 bhp per tonne, and an optional performance upgrade helped owners get closer to that magic figure. It became an instant cult car, celebrated for its futuristic styling and purist driving experience, and today it remains highly collectible. For enthusiasts maintaining or personalising lightweight performance cars like the Elise 340R, Automotive Superstore offers a wide range of quality parts, fluids, filters, braking components, detailing gear, tools and accessories to help keep prized machines performing at their best on road, track or in the garage.