handling and chipping

[shaunh]

the elan i am told is near pefect as manufactured by lotus (except the squashy exhaust?) Therefore if you chip and get more turbo boost does this not affect handling and basically overall performance of the elan (unwanted wheel spin and regular tyre change).

[Enright]

No worries, the engine can handle and deliver the extra power without a problem.
I've heard it said that the engine was safely rated to 220BHP by Lotus without any modifications or compromising reliability.
It's a similar story with the suspension and chassis, although you're bound to wear out tyres quicker if you drive with a lead foot everywhere!
Whether the brakes are up to the job is a different matter...