And finally, it's gorgeous. Every angle is classically elegant, every square foot a purposefully designed masterpiece of form and function. The Esprit just might have the most beautifully executed air dams in all of autodom, a stunning piece of molded plastic and metal meshing. Yes, the panel gaps are a wee bit on the gaping side, a problem with composite cars, but the paintwork is flawless.
In the end there wasn't much about the Esprit that I didn't like. It goes and stops as quickly as nearly anything in its exotic class while pulling eyeballs like nothing south of a Ferrari or Lamborghini. And speaking of south, it only costs a fraction of what almost any competitive exotic will set you back.
If you, like me, have always loved the looks and longed for the performance of the Lotus Esprit, but haven't yet made your move, now's the time if you plan on buying new. It will end production shortly, at least as it is now, to be replaced by a yet unseen new model. While Lotus needs the boost in sales that the new car will no doubt bring, it will be a shame to see the old girl finally go.
Specifications:
Note: Additional larger photos available in photo album.
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| With the final run of Esprits on their way to showrooms, now's the time to act if you plan on buying new. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
If you, like me, have always loved the looks and longed for the performance of the Lotus Esprit, but haven't yet made your move, now's the time if you plan on buying new. It will end production shortly, at least as it is now, to be replaced by a yet unseen new model. While Lotus needs the boost in sales that the new car will no doubt bring, it will be a shame to see the old girl finally go.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): $129,900 - $132,900
- Body Type: 2-door convertible
- Layout: front engine, RWD
- Engine: 350 hp, 295 lb-ft of torque, 3.5-L, DOHC, 48-valve twin-turbo V8
- Transmission: 5-spd manual
- Acceleration (0 - 100 km/h): 4.5 seconds
- Top Speed: 290 km/h
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Curb Weight: 1,380 kg (3,042 lbs)
- Seating Capacity: 2
- Cargo Volume (trunk): 150 L (5.3 cu ft)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 15.7 / 10.2 L/100 km (15 / 23 mpg)
- Warranty (mo/km): 24 / unlimited comprehensive - 24 / unlimited powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Acura NSX, Dodge Viper, Ferrari 360 Modena, Lamborghini Gallardo, Maserati 4200 GT, Porsche 911 Turbo
- Website: www.lotuscars.com (Canada: BC - www.weissach.com; ON - www.gentrylane.com; QU - www.johnscotti.com)
Note: Additional larger photos available in photo album.
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