Lotus claims the crown for producing some of the coolest and most-robust cars in sports car history. Aside from the muscular Mustang, the acclaimed Ferraris, and V12-powered Lamborghinis, one example of a sports car that made a name for itself is the classic Esprit Turbo.
Originally produced in 1976, the Giugario-designed Esprit was the first car of its kind to bear the Esprit nameplate, and deliver an amazing track performance that put it at par with the Ford’s first-generation Torino Cobra Hardtop Ram Air, and other well-known classic rivals. Later, the Esprit received a considerable P.R. boost, thanks to the famous James Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me”.
With more than a dozen rivaling cars arriving on the scene, Lotus had to get back to the drawing board to design and develop something stronger and faster. In 1980, the brand’s next and long-awaited model was debuted. The 1980 Lotus Esprit came with a major performance spec – one that would drive a wedge between it and its entire competition – the introduction of turbocharging, which was initially in the Essex Turbo Esprit. Eventually, this sports car earned a new name for itself – a name that would popularize it to this very day: The Lotus Esprit Turbo.
Later, the Esprit was redesigned by Peter Stevens, and released in 1987. The new design penned the McLaren F1, with a shape that took after Giugario’s pioneering styling, with softer edges. This model was known to marque enthusiasts by its internal engineering code of "X180”, and its fuel-injected, DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that made 215 hp, with a speed that would leave the BMW 5 Series M5 biting dust. This model arrived in North America the following year and was retailed at $63,695.
Today, the Lotus Esprit Turbo has become a prized collectible and costs far less than you think. We’ll be looking at its current price, anticipated specs, and some factors you should consider checking out when you buy your very own Esprit.
Here’s How Much A Classic 80s Lotus Esprit Costs In 2021/2022
Typically, a used Lotus Esprit Turbo with a mileage ranging from 40,000 to 50,000 costs around $25,000, considering that it's in a better condition. This model as seen in the image above was listed and auctioned out for $24,250 on bringatrailer.com earlier this year. It seemed to be in good condition and only had 41,000 miles on it.
On the high end, a good condition Esprit with anywhere from 15,000 to 20,000 miles on the odometer could cost you about $42,000.
Driving A Used Lotus Esprit Turbo
Buying a used car gives you an exciting feeling. In a way, winning a car at an auction is almost like walking into London’s Westminster Abbey and having a crown placed in your head. But, a used car can get somewhat tricky. There’s a chance you may get skeptical every time to get to a used car dealership or an auction, which can put you on edge, and that’s just okay.
Nobody wants to pay repair costs that exceed the cost of the actual car. Whether you are an experienced car enthusiast or a newbie who simply wants to get a taste of the classic Lotus Esprit life, there are a few things you should know about the Lotus Esprit.
First of all, Esprit’s high-powered engine is prone to stress, for obvious reasons. Because of this, it’s important to make regular visits for oil changes, and new spark plugs whenever possible. The cost of oil changes and spark plugs range between $50 and $55, with a labour cost of $60. Also, the Lotus Esprit needs a new timing belt every now and again, so as to keep its internal combustion engines running smoothly.
Caranddriver.com recommends replacing the old belt with a new one after every five years, or at the very least when the odometer hits 25,000 miles. This is a very common issue in the brand's final four-cylinder Esprits, which used variants of the 2.2-liter engine. Make sure not to forget and end up going buying a new one when the previous belt is broken.
The results of a broken trimming belt can be terrible. Speaking of price, the cost of a new timing belt for a Lotus Esprit is just under $100. Labour, on the other hand, may cost you close to a grand. If the timing belt is broken, the engine may become damaged with bent valves, ruined pistons, and, possibly, destroyed cylinder block, which can cost you a lot more money for repairs. In this case, you will be looking at the cost of a whole new engine. In other words, you’re screwed.
A higher number of Esprits have been reported to have leaking issues. This is mostly caused by the bolts that become loosened due to massive heat that hits the turbo handle and the exhaust manifold.
While these sports cars are equipped with a pump that circulates liquid for cooling purposes, the heat from the turbocharger can get somewhat overwhelming to the impeller. The solution here is to replace the entire pump with an electric system. Also, before you drive your car out of the auction lot, be sure to have it checked out for other prone areas, such as the Transaxle, Clutch, tires, as well as front and rear brakes.
Here’s The Engine That Made The Lotus Esprit So Iconic
The heart of the classic Lotus Esprit Turbo is an impressively potent turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, which produces a stunning 215 hp and 220 ft-lb of torque. This mid-engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission to propel the car from a standstill to 60 mph in just under an average of 5.3 seconds. The classic Lotus Esprit Turbo still boasts a top speed of 150 mph.