LOTUS EXIGE (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 94 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
87%
Total Tests (2024)
94
Avg Mileage
44,899 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 2004 LOTUS EXIGE reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 20 years old, 87% of LOTUS EXIGEs from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 94 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 44,899 miles.
How does the 2004 LOTUS EXIGE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 LOTUS EXIGE has 44,899 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a LOTUS EXIGE?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 87%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2004 LOTUS EXIGE cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
LOTUS EXIGE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 98 | 6,384 mi |
| 2020 | 95% | 164 | 9,530 mi |
| 2019 | 98% | 189 | 13,275 mi |
| 2018 | 94% | 159 | 15,610 mi |
| 2017 | 95% | 176 | 17,471 mi |
| 2016 | 96% | 182 | 19,868 mi |
| 2015 | 94% | 179 | 26,709 mi |
| 2014 | 93% | 184 | 23,573 mi |
| 2013 | 95% | 142 | 25,541 mi |
| 2010 | 94% | 133 | 27,160 mi |
| 2009 | 96% | 74 | 33,090 mi |
| 2008 | 89% | 168 | 42,736 mi |
| 2007 | 92% | 169 | 37,419 mi |
| 2006 | 88% | 193 | 44,832 mi |
| 2005 | 92% | 156 | 50,716 mi |
| 2004 | 87% | 94 | 44,899 mi |
| 2001 | 96% | 49 | 38,260 mi |
| 2000 | 95% | 111 | 34,885 mi |
Checking a specific LOTUS EXIGE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2004 LOTUS EXIGE
The 2004 LOTUS EXIGE is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 94 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 13% of all 2004 cars for reliability.
With an average of 44,899 miles at 20 years old, LOTUS EXIGE owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2004 LOTUS EXIGE Fuel Costs
The 1796cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2004 LOTUS EXIGE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 87% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
LOTUS EXIGE Reliability Trend
Newer LOTUS EXIGEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2004 LOTUS EXIGE
At 20 years old, the LOTUS EXIGE is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. Note: with only 94 tests in our data, these figures should be treated as indicative rather than definitive.
Alternatives to the 2004 LOTUS EXIGE
The LOTUS EXIGE is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2006) 73% pass rate (-14%) from 56,257 tests
- MINI MINI (2005) 71% pass rate (-16%) from 45,707 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2006) 80% pass rate (-7%) from 40,353 tests
- HONDA JAZZ (2006) 71% pass rate (-16%) from 35,054 tests