Elan M100s haven't really taken off and if you're not 'hands-on' then the Honda S2000 should prove more reliable and is, therefore, the better choice for you. Early ones don't have as much low-down as torque as later models and have snappier handling. Rust-proofing is minimal, although most cars are garaged over the winter. You'll still want to check for rust though (especially where muck collects like the wheelarches) as bodywork can be one of the most expensive things to sort out. Aside from that, you'll need to make sure that the car's been well looked after, mechanically speaking. Yes, they're reliable, but with peak power coming in at 8300rpm and a rev limiter at 9000rpm, these engines work hard. Values have also been pretty solid on S2000s - perhaps they'll never capture the public's imagination in the same way as 911s do, but you shouldn't lose money as long as you don't scrimp on the upkeep.