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Originally Posted by Bavarian Motorist
MNboxster, do you have any insight on the Javan r1?
I am a HUGE lotus fan, and I am going to buy an elise in 07, but I just heard about this Javan R1 which is 500 lbs lighter than an elise, and uses a honda k20 engine (same one used in the s2k I believe) making 220hp.
It's only in England now, and is priced at the equivalent of $60,000 USD..
After hearing about this car, I am gonna have a tough time justifying the purchase of my lotus.
Any insight from you?
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Hi,
I can only tell you what I've been told by some friends across the pond and the press reports I've seen.
The main difference between the Elise and the Javan r1 is that the Javan is much more of a Kit Car. It has that
Kit Car feel to it whereas the Elise feels like a manufactured car. Plus, the Javan r1, from what I know, is only available in RHD, which may make a difference to some.
One UK friend, who has driven it, compared it to the early TVRs in that it does go like stink, but doesn't inspire real confidence.
There are lots of these
fringe cars out there, limited production cars which can be very satisfying, but which may be short-lived, especially when it comes to future parts availability.
And, personally, 60 large is too much to pay for a fun-only car of this ilk. Were it me, I'd take the $60k and plop it as a dwn. pymnt. on a Noble M400, or on a classic such as an Elite, early Jag, Healey, Porsche or Merc. - something which will appreciate in value, but hey, that's me...
Happy Motoring!... Jim'99
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