The slalom and cornering results (how did they measure cornering acceleration if not on a skidpad?) just go to show how meaningless those tests are, the way they're performed. I've seen cars tested in magazine comparison with "ringer" tires (like the Neon that was tested with BFG KDs, even though that's not the factory tire by a longshot).
What's considered a "rich man's car" is relative, but the Elise isn't cheap. Waiting helps, but even for those of us who got on the list early, MSRP is $44,000, delivered, with no options and either yellow or red paint. You want the sports package? $2400. You want the touring package (leather seats and power windows)? $1200. You want some other color? $600. You want a limited slip differential? You get to wait a little longer and pay extra for that, too. I'd guess $1500, if Lotus doesn't bundle it with some electro-nanny stability control (that'd be extra). It's up there in C6 territory, price-wise.
Insurance-wise, when I called for a quote to replace my '99 Miata with an '05 Elise, I was told that my rates would go from $800/year to $3600/year. Ouch! Other people are finding better deals, but I don't think the companies offering the lower rates have realized what the repair costs are like. And Lotus maintenance costs are pretty ridiculous, too. Dealers are charging between $200-300 for the 1000-mile service, which is basically an oil change and a dump of the ECU datalogger (for Lotus' benefit, not yours...they're checking to see if they can void your warranty based on abuse during the break-in period).
I wouldnt trade it in for a a Elise. Id trade it in for a EVO MR in "pimp" black on black tho. 
