Lot 12: Lotus ESPRIT TURBO

The Esprit first saw the light of day in 1976, a striking design by Giugiaro of Ital Design.� The earliest versions were powered by a 2-litre engine; however, this was subsequently enlarged to 2.2 litres with both versions driving via a 5-speed Citro�n SM transmission.� By 1980, a turbo version became available with the revised engine now fitted with a Garrett T3 turbocharger.� With 210bhp available, a top speed in excess of 150mph was now on the cards whilst acceleration was particularly impressive with 0-60 being accomplished in under six seconds.� The motoring press were full of praise for the Esprit Turbo's handling, which remains impressive even when judged by current standards.First registered on 29th March 1985, this particular Esprit Turbo is finished in red with magnolia leather trim.� Understood to be in good all-round order and seemingly well maintained, it is said to drive very well.�It is offered for sale with an MOT certificate valid until 16th April 2008, along with a V5 registration document.