I have seen a few of these on the road but I haven't had the chance to see one at an autocross!!

This leaves me in a quandry.  I still have my heart set on a 1997-2003 Lotus Esprit, but the Elise will be new (read warranty) and will cost about the same as a used Esprit.  The 0-60 is roughly the same, and they are both mid-engine.  I think it may come down to what the wife is willing to ride in/will I fit in the Elise.