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LOTUS ELISE FITMENT
The Lotus Elise (S2/S3, 2001–2021) is one of the lightest production sports cars ever built, weighing under 2,000 lbs. The S2 uses a 4x100 bolt pattern with a 56.6mm center bore. Every gram of unsprung weight matters on this chassis — forged construction isn't a luxury, it's a necessity. The Elise's narrow fenders and compact brakes allow for smaller-diameter wheels that maximize sidewall and mechanical grip.
Quick Reference
Bolt Pattern: 4x100 (S2) | Center Bore: 56.6mm | Hub Type: Conical Seat | Lug Torque: 105 Nm (77 ft-lb)
Bolt Pattern Note: The 4x100 pattern limits aftermarket options significantly. Grip Theory machines all designs to order, so 4x100 is no problem. (Note: Some later S3 variants moved to 5x114.3 — verify before ordering).
16"/17" Staggered — The OEM+ Standard
The factory-inspired stagger respects the Elise's lightweight philosophy and mid-engine dynamics while allowing for modern, grippy rubber.
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16/17" Flush Stagger
Maintains factory balance with a wider footprint.
- Recommended Front: 16x7 ET31
- Recommended Rear: 17x8 ET38
- Street Tires: 195/50R16 Front, 225/45R17 Rear
- Performance Tires: 205/45R16 Front, 235/40R17 Rear
Why this setup: The Elise's clamshell front bodywork has very tight clearances — keep front offsets at ET28+ to avoid contact. The 16-inch front clears the factory Brembo calipers with ease. Sub-12lb forged front wheels are achievable in this size and dramatically improve turn-in response on a car this light.
15"/16" Staggered — Dedicated Track Weapon
For dedicated track use, stepping down to 15-inch fronts and 16-inch rears is common to maximize tire choice in motorsport compounds and achieve the absolute lowest unsprung weight.
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15/16" Track Stagger
Maximum mechanical grip and minimum rotational mass for time attack.
- Recommended Front: 15x7 ET30
- Recommended Rear: 16x8 ET35
- Track Tires (200TW): 205/50R15 Front, 225/45R16 or 245/45R16 Rear
Why this setup: A 15-inch front forged wheel can weigh under 11 lbs. This setup provides the tallest sidewall, which absorbs track curbing better and provides more compliant ride characteristics on rough surfaces. It also opens up the highly competitive 15-inch motorsport tire market.
Recommended Tires by Use Case
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Elise Tire Selection Guide
- Street & Light Track: Yokohama Advan Fleva V701 — great predictable grip for lightweight cars on the street.
- Track / Autocross (200TW): Yokohama Advan A052 — the proven weapon for the Elise platform, offering massive grip.
- Endurance Track: Hankook Ventus RS4 — durable and consistent for long track sessions.
Configure Your Set →