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“I do not fit in this car” is a top reason vintage cars are listed for sale. We can ask why that deficiency was not forecast before splashing out for a particular car but the fact is, many times it just isn’t. “I do not fit” has brought us this 1987 Lotus Turbo Esprit HCi (high compression injected) listed here on eBay and bid to $16,600, reserve not met. The car is located in Eugene, Oregon. The seller knows his way around Land Rovers; he purchased this Esprit several months ago for $27k, understanding that it would need work but now feeling unmotivated about the project since he won’t even be able to drive it. The car was taken apart for paint under prior ownership and not properly reassembled – apparently parts may be missing completely, and some electrical functions are inoperable. But several mechanical items have also been refreshed, so all is not lost.

Lotus developed its 900-series four-cylinder engine for years before modifying it to equip the Esprit. By the time the turbo variant arrived, the engine displaced 2.2 liters and breathed through twin Dellorto carburetors augmented by a Garrett turbocharger. Compared to the limited production Essex – Lotus’ first attempt at turbocharging – compression was hiked from 7.5:1 to 8.0:1. For the US, those Dellortos had to go, supplanted by fuel injection. All these changes resulted in 215 hp, much-improved mid-range torque, and almost no turbo lag. That said, the car still sent power to the ground through a Citroën five-speed manual, and currently the clutch pedal – despite a new clutch – is misbehaving. On the other hand, the tires, brakes, and water pump are new, and the timing belt was replaced. The new tires alone are a big plus – it’s hard to find these odd, staggered sets nowadays. Tire Rack says no! and Longstone in the UK says… maybe. For other parts, you’ll need these guys.

The interior design remained stuck in the ’70s until about 1993, when it was modernized. The gauges are notoriously difficult to see – buried as they are deep in that pod. Note the handbrake on the left-hand side. The seating position means you wear the car – kinda like a Marcos. The seller notes that the car has a new headliner.

Giorgetto Giugiaro designed the first Esprit which both thrilled and dismayed Lotus fans. The new shape was in keeping with the times – edgy, modern – but outside of the design, the car was judged underpowered and poorly constructed. For a car with so many knocks against it, it’s a wonder the Esprit didn’t die; instead, perseverance and continuous improvement made it the longest-running model Lotus ever made. The S2 solved a few ergonomic problems; the S3 cured suspension issues; and the Turbo Esprit brought a needed power boost. Later V8 equipped cars were even faster, and the final versions made over 1999 through 2004 breathing through twin turbo-chargers were wicked performers. This model is the last of its kind, though, before Peter Stevens was tasked with modernizing the car’s styling. It has a special appeal in the marketplace and prices have risen steadily. A nice example can cost $25k to $30k these days and as more examples are sorted with modern techniques, it’s like prices will remain buoyant.