Lotus Esprit – Compact Sports Car
Lotus Esprit Specifications – Iconic Compact Sports Car
The Lotus Esprit is a legendary British sports car that defined performance, style, and innovation from its debut in 1976 until 2004. Known for its lightweight design, mid-engine layout, and striking wedge-shaped body by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Esprit combined exotic styling with racing-inspired engineering. Over its 28-year production run, the Lotus Esprit evolved through multiple generations, each offering improved performance, aerodynamics, and technology, making it one of the most celebrated cars in the supercar segment.
Engine & Performance
The Lotus Esprit was powered by a range of high-performance engines:
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2.0L and 2.2L Turbocharged I4 engines delivering 160–280 hp in early models.
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3.5L Twin-Turbo V8 producing 350 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque in later models.
With a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) acceleration time of around 5.2 seconds (V8) and a top speed of 175 mph (282 km/h), the Esprit rivaled supercars like Ferrari and Lamborghini. Its 5-speed manual transmission offered sharp, engaging gear changes for a pure driving experience.
Chassis & Handling
Built with a fiberglass body over a steel backbone chassis, the Lotus Esprit was designed to deliver exceptional handling. Weighing just 1,200–1,350 kg, the Esprit offered razor-sharp cornering and precise steering. Independent double wishbone suspension, ventilated disc brakes, and a mid-engine layout gave it superb balance and track-ready dynamics.
Dimensions & Design
The Lotus Esprit stood out with its compact yet aggressive proportions:
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Length: ~4,200 mm (165 in)
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Width: ~1,880 mm (74 in)
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Height: ~1,120 mm (44 in)
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Wheelbase: ~2,440 mm (96 in)
The low-slung, aerodynamic design with pop-up headlights and clean lines made the Esprit an instant icon.
Interior Features
Inside, the Esprit featured a 2-seater sports cockpit with leather-trimmed seats, analog gauges, and driver-focused ergonomics. Later models offered luxury touches such as air conditioning, premium sound systems, and Alcantara interiors, without compromising its sporty nature.
Why Choose the Lotus Esprit?
The Lotus Esprit remains a top choice for collectors and sports car enthusiasts due to its iconic design, thrilling performance, and timeless appeal. From the classic 2.0L turbo to the powerful Esprit V8, this compact sports car continues to represent Lotus’s philosophy of lightweight engineering and precision handling.