Car expert urges drivers to buy ‘underappreciated’ early 2000s modern classic that’s ‘like a mini Le Mans’ racer

A CAR expert who specialises in high-performance motors has revealed the ultimate "modern classic."

James Russell, founder of The Motor Grid, a dealership with a carefully selected collection of vehicles for modern classic enthusiasts, has shared his passion and insight on a golden age of high-performance road cars.

Cars categorised as modern classics are generally from the 1990s and 2000s that have become heavily sought-after by collectors and have enjoyed a new-found appreciation from petrolheads.

In an exclusive chat with Sun Motors, James said: "I believe that anything really that falls into the 90s and early 2000s to 2010 fits within the modern classic era.

"I think that's kind of the era when a lot of the combustion cars were near their peak, so there's a massive wave of epic cars that fit into that category."

Motors such as the Honda S2000, Audi TT or the Porsche Boxster are among the most common modern classics, but James believes there's one car that stands out above the others.

When asked to name the quintessential modern classic, James picked a British icon that packs plenty of charm.

He said: "For me, it's the Lotus Elise S2 - it pops into my brain I think because they were so iconic in their era.

"And now they're snowballing into excellence, I think they are so underappreciated, particularly if you want to get a decent 111S."

I think they are so underappreciated

James Russell, The Motor Grid

The ultra-lightweight Series 2 Elise, built between 2001 and 2011, was truly a pocket-sized supercar - designed to be small, nimble, and tons of fun.

But the 111S model, which came out in 2002, packed even more punch - with 156 bhp helping it top 130 mph and reach 0-60 mph in five seconds.

It was packed full of little extras too, including carpets, leather trimmings and even air conditioning.

James added: "There's nothing better, it's like being inside a mini Le Mans car - you've got that wonderful wrap-around screen, single wiper blade.

"You're sitting in this thing and you feel like you're sitting on the tarmac."

Another modern classic James mentions is the Chris Bangle-designed Fiat Coupe Twin-Valve, a much-forgotten sports car originally released in 1993 that could hit 155 mph.

Keep a special eye out for the Limited Edition model, with only around 300 bought in the UK from July 1998.

James said: "For me it is absolutely magnificent, and is hugely underappreciated."

The motoring guru has previously revealed other modern classic motors that drivers can pick up "for peanuts" - including a £3,000 Porsche.

Elsewhere, a rare Ford Capri has been discovered among hundreds of motors in an abandoned car graveyard.