Let's state the obvious: $18 a ticket for a (maybe) 3 minute ride that is definitely showing signs of wear is a bit of a rip-off.
But I was a tourist coming to Montreal and I was damned if I wasn't going to see this. If you're even mildly afraid of heights, you will probably want to skip the elevator ride on the incline.
If you aren't afraid of heights, you will enjoy the brief 270 degree view of the city. You will see buildings, water, and Mount Royale, if you're lucky. If you're here on a foggy day, you won't be seeing much -just like me. Don't expect to be overwhelmed with excitement, either way.