2006 Melbourne International Motor Show Auction
Lot
34
1989 Lotus Esprit '40th Anniversary' Turbo Coupe
Sold: $47,000
Sold
Specifications
| Engine | Lotus Type 910 2.2 litre 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Gearbox | 5-speed manual |
| Body Work | Coupe (fibreglass) |
| Colour | White Pearlescent |
Description
This lot is no
longer available
The Lotus Esprit changed the image of Lotus as predominantly a 'kit-car' maker, to a serious manufacturer of high performance cars for the world market. Based on a concept car shown on Giorgio Giugiaro's Ital Design stand at the 1972 Turin Motor Show, the Lotus Esprit first appeared in production-ready form at the 1975 Paris auto Salon, where it was awarded 'Star of the Show'.
Its wedge shaped exterior was the latest in modern design and philosophy and the performance of its160bhp 2 litre engine, together with its light weight and legendary Lotus ride and handling, soon projected the Esprit to Supercar status. The Esprit stepped up to a new level in 1980 with the launch of the Turbo Esprit, This was not a bolt-on turbo pack but a totally new model, fitted with the new long stroke 910-turbo engine producing 210bhp. The Turbo Esprit came with a new wrap around front bumper and new splitter, new rear spoiler and side skirts, and an improved backbone chassis featuring a redesigned engine bay.
Lotus's 21st birthday at Hethel was marked in October 1987 by the launch of first Peter Steven-designed Esprit. Smoother and rounder, the new Esprit also featured a modernised interior, giving the Esprit a new lease of life after more than a decade on the market. The following year, Lotus celebrated its 40th Anniversary by producing a special Limited Edition of 40 Esprit Turbos for sale in 1989. All 40 featured White Pearlescent paint with matching wheels, a distinctive rear spoiler and a blue leather interior. They were the last carburettor-equipped Esprits.