Bolting a turbo to the race-derived Type 910 2.2L Lotus engine catapulted the Esprit into the supercar league. Finally, Giugiaro's wedge had the go to match the show. The initial cars, known as 'Essex Edition' cars, were replaced by the regular Turbo in 1981, which ran the same specification but without some of the glitzy extras. In Lotus circles, these early cars are the ones to have because their dry sumps lower the center of gravity, improve free-revving and offer higher power.
Just 143 non-Essex 'dry sump' Turbos were built, of which only 110-115 were UK market RHD examples like this. It goes further in its appeal by sporting a desirable 'Black Beauty' color scheme, like Lotus' 1978 Type 79 race car. It retains the single-piece cross-mesh BBS alloys that give these cars their nickname amongst enthusiasts. Inside there is a wonderfully preserved ivory leather interior with trim, switchgear, dials and headlining in very good order.
The Esprit Turbo is Britain's homegrown supercar. Much as we love the later cars, this car is a timely reminder of the purity and beauty of the early ones. It has the sought-after specification and condition to appeal to serious collectors. image.png3.68 MB
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