Yep, just got back. Those guys were great. That really was the most painless sale in history. A few simple forms, and that was it. No games on the prices, no bizarre dealer-installed options offered, no "processing fees", nothing. Curt was great. (And I know he reads this board, so, thanks again Curt!)
Prep took a while, partly cause one of the parking lights wasn't working. Turns out the connector either wasn't plugged into the bulb, or had come loose in shipping. But everything else checked out ok.
Lou (the Service Manager) was kind enough to let me hang out with him as he prepped the car, which was interesting. In talking to Lou, he told me that he's so used to driving rare exotics (Lambos, etc.), so it's no big deal for him anymore, but that when he drove the Elise demo a few months back, "that put a smile on my face." He told me that it was THE best handling car he'd ever driven. And the federalized version is better!
I also met the owner of the dealership. Really nice, extremely refined older gentleman. (Not what I'd picture as a typical owner.) I was remarking on the GORGEOUS new Bentley in the showroom. It was very modern, with a reals sports-car look, unlike most Bentleys. That sucker has over 500hp. Anyway, I commented on how nice it was, and he allowed how it was, indeed, a very nice car. But he said that it remained to be seen if it would become a classic. He contrasted this with the Elise, telling me that "every car Lotus makes is a classic."
They were also nice enough to let me scrounge thru the shipping boxes of all the Lotus merchandise they'd just received. I bought a mug, cap, bunch of pens, and a padded bag for the hardtop (nicer than the one it comes with).
So I just drove back 250 miles. First impressions -- SWEET! At one point in the drive, I suddenly had the sensation of really being one with the road -- of really sensing what the car was doing, like you do in a go-cart. Nothing artificial between you and the pavement below. Really nice.
Getting into the car isn't too bad, but getting out is a TOTAL pain in the arse. Oh well, I'll get used to it.
Full report to follow. I'm sure you're waiting with bated breath.