Complete mechanical overhaul carried out on import from the USA
Accompanied by a wealth of documentation, including Lotus provenance certificate, FFVE certification, current CT papers and a substantial invoice for recent refurbishment work
The Plus
The 1980s were the golden age of supercharging. Although supercharging in the form of a supercharger had been around for some time, the turbo was considerably more efficient, using energy from the engine's exhaust gases that would otherwise be lost.
Supercars in particular benefited during this period, with the arrival of legends such as the Porsche 930 Turbo and the Ferrari 208 GTB/S Turbo. So it's not surprising that Lotus adopted this technology, as founder Colin Chapman's philosophy had always been to save as much weight as possible. Why make your engine bigger (and therefore heavier) if you can get the same power from a smaller unit?
Therein lies the genius of the Esprit Turbo. Its compact 2.2-litre twin-cam engine produced 210bhp, and given that the car's kerb weight was just over a tonne, the performance was seriously impressive. Combined with excellent weight distribution and masterful styling by Giugiaro, the Esprit Turbo S3 was an iconic car of its time.
This 1983 model began its life in the United States. On its recent arrival in France, it underwent a major mechanical overhaul, including a new timing belt and water pump. The vendor assures us that this Esprit is in remarkably original condition, even as regards the paintwork! Accompanied by an abundance of documents confirming its authenticity, this Lotus is ready to be enjoyed by its new owner.1021_r0041_020.jpg8.69 MB
History and Documents
45,360 miles (73,000 km) on the clock, probably proven given the car's original condition
1983 MY car supplied to the USA left-hand drive
Imported from the USA at the end of 2021
Registered in France with Carte Grise de Collection (FFVE certificate present)
MOT valid until September 2027
The service history is incomplete, but a detailed mechanical inspection and overhaul were carried out at the time of importation.
We are told that this Lotus has always been stored in a garage, which has preserved its condition.
The seller states that the paintwork and interior are original and unrestored
American specification impact absorbing bumpers
Fair patina for its age, but no excessive wear or deterioration
The bodywork appears straight, with no major defects visible in the photos
Paintwork looks good, retaining a brilliant shine and showing only slight signs of wear
The interior shows age-appropriate wear, particularly to the stitching on the driver's seat, which needs a little attention, but is still in good serviceable condition
2.2-litre turbocharged in-line 4-cylinder engine with double overhead camshafts
Five-speed manual gearbox
Engine and gearbox stated to be in very good condition
The vendor notes that the turbo is working correctly, achieving a pressure of 0.55 bar
Recent mechanical service including new timing belt, water pump and new tyres
BEFORE BUYING
This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means that consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic's terms and conditions.
✓ We ask that a non-refundable fee is paid if you are the lucky winner of the auction or if your bid is accepted. Please refer to our FAQs and terms and conditions for specific fees.
✓ This vehicle is "sold as is", on an "as is, where is" basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and it is customary to carry out a full vehicle inspection prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final offer or tender price, as specified in the advert.
✓ We want the transaction to go as smoothly as you do, which is why UK-registered cars and motorbikes offered for sale on Car & Classic are HPI checked to ensure they have no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and are not financially pledged, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are registered as written off as part of a total loss at the time the advert is placed on Car & Classic and provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) to help you. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the status of the vehicle and it is always worth carrying out a full vehicle history check before making an offer on it.
✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. If you wish, we can recommend a third party transport company who can assist you. For more details and to speak to the team, email [email protected].
