"Built between 1976 and 2004, the Lotus Esprit was unveiled in 1972 as a concept car and was a development of a stretched Lotus Europa chassis. It was among the first of designer Giorgetto Giugiaro's polygonal 'folded paper' designs. Originally, the name Kiwi was proposed but, in keeping with the Lotus tradition of having all car model names start with the letter 'E', the name became Esprit. Introduced in April 1981, the Turbo Esprit and Series III Esprit marked a necessary consolidation; both new models had a common chassis. The SIII continued to use the 2.2 litre, type 912 engine, whilst the Turbo Esprit reverted to a less complex wet-sump lubrication system, retaining the power and torque outputs of its dry-sump predecessor. The interior for both cars was revised and featured new trim; combined with changes to the body moulds this resulted in more headroom and an enlarged footwell. Externally, the Turbo Esprit retained the full aerodynamic body kit of the Essex cars and featured prominent 'Turbo Esprit' decals on the nose and sides.This fabulous example was supplied new by Bell & Colvill Lotus dealers in Surrey on 19th September 1986 with a dealer stamped owners hand book up to 53,000 miles. There is sizeable history file detailing previous works, old MoT test certificates, sundry invoices and the UK Registration document. Also present is a full set of workshop manuals to complement this exceptional Lotus Esprit. The engine was rebuilt at 50,000 miles, with the cockpit being re-upholstered and the paintwork refreshed in the early 2000s to exacting standards. The car had been dry stored for 12 years from 2009 before having light restoration, re-commissioning and detailing over the last year. Now fully operational, and used regularly, both engine and gearbox are smooth and strong with excellent engine oil pressure. All gauges operate and read correctly. Alloys have been fully refurbished back to factory specification and new ‘period’ tyres fitted all round. Some subtle modifications have been made and these include Hi-Spec four-pot front brakes and fully adjustable coil overs, fitted all round. The car now benefits from a new alarm system and central locking. Maintained regardless of cost, this wonderful and rather original example, runs and drives very well indeed and would enhance any serious collection.
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