It's my impression that the power windows were installed because they were lighter than roll-ups and that they afforded more room in the door for drivers' armrests. In > 20 yrs, I had no problems with them.
Yes, the glovebox anti-theft switch almost stranded me one day b4 I figured out the prob.**
After adding much hp, I put +2 frt brakes on. They were a bit heavy, which one could feel, but great stopping. Fronts locked up 1st, which is what I preferred, and really easy to modulate.
Mine was very weather tight - for a British car.
Hint: I wrapped a towel around metal roof hoops so that:
1. They wouldn't abrade the top
2. I always had a dry towel (was reluctant to put top up; once had a small pond in tray above trans cover
)
My conclusion: The Elan is the best "classic" Brit sports car ever made. Surprisingly roomy, good trunk, actual spare tire (do not remove for track days: it's part of your safety protection), great heater, intermittent wipers (not designed that way), awfully good o/s visibility w/top up, very comfy seats, the BEST steering & feel, good ride w/great handling, wonderful trans/shifting.
I did feel safer after installing Spyder roll cage to protect my feet, but was likely an illusion. Great Spyder rear axle conversion; a must for me.
** In the old days, my theft prevention was a switched wire grounding the coil. Add all the wires you want, until you find the switch, car will not start.
-g