Description
Model History:
Lotus derived the Esprit from an Italdesign concept car presented in Turin in 1972, featuring a rear-mounted engine, a steel backbone chassis and a laminated polyester body. Lotus assembled all Esprit models by hand, which represented approximately 560 hours of labour. Over 80% of the parts came from Lotus production. The S1 is equipped with the Lotus 2-litre 16-valve 160 bhp Type 907 engine, the first engine entirely designed by Lotus in 1972. For the S2, Lotus evolved the engine by increasing its displacement to 2, 174 cc, thereby improving torque.
In 1978, the Lotus Formula 1 team won the Constructors' World Championship and Drivers' World Championship titles thanks to the Formula 1 Type 79 driven by Mario Andretti. To celebrate this victory, a special edition of the Esprit S2 was produced. Featuring the black and gold colours of the cigarette manufacturer John Player Special, Lotus's sponsor, each example is numbered.
Lotus had planned to produce one hundred examples for the English market and one hundred others for the rest of the world. Ultimately, 147 examples were produced: 94 reserved for the United Kingdom, 26 sold to the United States and 27 in the rest of the world.
History of this Lotus Esprit Commemorative:
Sold new in England in 1979, this is number 65. It remained there until 2013 before being repatriated when purchased by its last owner in France. He then decided to carry out a complete restoration, respecting all original specifications and materials. Today it is in pristine condition.
Bodywork:
The original polyester bodywork is in excellent health, with no corrosion or accident damage and in outstanding condition. The door and bonnet gaps are excellent. In the specific "John Player Special" black and gold colours to commemorate the F1 victories in 1978. It also retains all its original gold lettering.
Interior:
Brand new interior conforming to original specifications, with the same materials as the period. Leather dashboard as well. It features its original "Commemorative Model" plaque and its 3-spoke steering wheel signed by Mario Andretti, along with ashtrays in each door.
Engine:
Its 2-litre engine runs perfectly. Completely restored and set up in 2020, it has covered only 100 km since. Matching numbers.
Gearbox:
Original 5-speed gearbox is in excellent working order, with smooth gear changes.
Running Gear:
Completely restored in 2015, all components have been epoxy-coated. The rear axle is stable with excellent road holding. The chassis behaviour is perfect. No play or noise detected. The suspension is perfect.
Braking Performance:
Braking proves perfect and true in a straight line thanks to its disc brakes. Completely restored in 2015.
Selling Price: €80, 000
