Now here’s a visual statement for you, a 1986 Lotus Turbo Esprit – and it’s a looker! And this example is a low-production HCi (High Compression Injection) model that was only sold for two years so that adds to its allure. Throwing off a generic Ferrari vibe, this Esprit is located in Huntington, New York and is available, here on eBay for a current bid of $25,100 with twenty-six bids tendered as of this writing.
Lotus’ Esprit was introduced in 1976 and continued through 2004. Several different series were offered and the total production volume exceeded 10K units. Being a 1986 model puts this subject car in the Series 3 category, which spanned 1982 to 1988, and it is specifically known as a Turbo Esprit. In 1986 the HC (High Compression) variant was added but so equipped models couldn’t pass U.S. emissions tests so the HCi was developed. These special cars were U.S. spec and used fuel injection (i) instead of the HC’s carburetor fuel induction system. The HCis were short-lived with production occurring only in ’86 and ’87. The total HCi volume, according to the Lotus Esprit Turbo website, was 881 units.
To state the obvious, this Lotus is in fabulous condition! The Calypso Red finish is deep and true with no signs of fade, scrapes, scratches, or other hi-jinx. Its good looks are accentuated by its stance and wide BBS wheels. The mileage recording is 33K miles and while documentation is always helpful in determining mileage authenticity, the only indication provided here is the odometer reading. Still, considering this car’s condition, the mileage seems likely.
Mid-engine power is provided by a fuel-injected, turbo-charged 2.2 liter, in-line four-cylinder powerplant good for either 210 or 215 HP depending on your research source. High compression in this case means an 8:1 ratio. The seller adds, “The engine starts right up from cold, settles in quickly and it is quiet and smooth. The stock exhaust system keeps the interior quiet and produces a mellow twin-cam turbo note out the back. Shifting and braking are on point. The car is surprisingly quick! “Considering an approximate weight of 2,700 lbs., there’s power-a-plenty for this Esprit to really get up and go. A five-speed manual transaxle makes the connection to the rear wheels. Other recent work/replacements include: a new battery, a complete disc brake job, new ignition wires, new spark plugs, timing adjustment, all belts replaced, some swapped out fuel injection components, a w/w pump, and an oil/filter change.
The interior is rated as superb and it does look very inviting. The buckskin leather upholstery displays without issue, except for some wrinkling in the door cards, and the seller tells us that both the clock and the A/C work but, further stated is “The factory air conditioning works well enough to chill the cabin, but we feel it could benefit from an upgrade” – not sure what an “upgrade” would entail. I can’t say with certainty, but the headroom looks a bit constrained for tall drivers – it would be good to hear from a reader who has had actual experience with an Esprit.
There you have it, an excellent example that appears to have been well maintained and carefully used. Being a no-reserve auction, this Esprit will sell, and at the current bidding, the next owner could end up with a reasonable buy if the bid stays in its relative current range. At least that’s my thought, what’s yours?
“The car is surprisingly quick!”. Well, what do you expect?
Because its a Lotus! Lightweight makes the speed.
Both seats look wrinkled and need a new upholstery. For
the a/c i guess it is working but the owner fears an upgrade
to the R 134
For people who like a real go-kart feeling take it.
Upgrade to R134A is easy. Change the dryer and expansion valve, flush the system, and you have up to date AC. Beautiful car here.
Like the 77 better 🏎️
I tried buying one of these years ago but at 6’2 200 lbs it was too cramped for comfort. The 1989 onward are roomier. They are fast and easy to work on with more engine bay room than interior space.
THE most overpriced 4 cylinder car!
Nonsense.
And I bet you have never owned one.
That driver’s seat speaks to the overall assembled “kit car” quality that pervades everything/anything built by Lotus. I speak as one who worked for a large SoCal dealer when these cars were new . . . I’ve owned plenty of British cars but never a Lotus or Jensen . . . there’s a reason for that.
The seats are not wrinkled, that is how they were finished. Fantastic cars if cared for properly just like any other high class cars. I have a collection of them and have heard all the old stories. Lots of Trouble Usually serious etc. Buy a 25k Porsche, a 50k Ferrari, a 50k Jag E type or any other classic and dip out in maintenance and see what happens. The Esprit was never a kit car and shouldn’t be classed as such.
Most people who knock them have never owned or driven one.
Buy the Esprit, drive it like it should be driven with a big mile on your face. Maintain it and enjoy it.
I personally drove THE VERY FIRST Lotus Esprit on North American soil. I know how they were built. Kit Kar Kuality (sic.)
I didn’t say that they were. Specifically, I said, “The buckskin leather upholstery displays without issue, except for some wrinkling in the door cards…”
JO
I try not to down cars unless somebody is trying to rob an unknowing buyer but do I love this and yes there may be another model that may be better or better looking but since I do not drive much anymore, yes I would be very satisfied to own the title and have the keys in my pocket.
Thoughts from a 84 year old,
Bill
I know that feeling Bill. I’m 67 and have 7 Lotus including an S2 and an S3 Turbo Esprit and a couple of Excel’s. Getting in and out of them is fun, but once your tucked in there and driving, who gives a toss. just stay in and drive :)
Hey John,
I can appreciate and envy you and your collection. I have a collection of older BMW’s, Z cars and then a mix of a few more Including my very first car which my Dad bought and gave me when I was 15. I just LOVE cars and motorcycles but there is room in my heart for some airplanes that I have flown and some I have seen and ridden in in my life. Oh well I guess I am just reminiscing of days gone by. You are still young to really enjoy your cars and hope you do for years to come.
Bill
I had a Europa and always wanted on of these, but at 6′ 2″ and big feet i am out.
Always liked the looks of these, but I would want one of the later V8 models personally ………….
Beautiful to look at
Certainly drives like a gocart
And
Exactly the way i love to drive !
Its the gettin in &out that is the issue …