Party like it’s 1997 with this Lotus Esprit V8 up for auction

A modern classic Lotus Esprit SE with an intriguing ownership history is currently up for auction.

The Bonhams Online website is hosting the sale of the V8-powered sports car, which started its life in 1997 as a member of the Lotus UK press fleet. 

It represents the chance to own a relatively affordable wedge of retro performance, complete with its own intriguing back story.

V8 power included

The Series 4 generation of the Lotus Esprit debuted in 1994, with updated styling by Julian Thomson (who also penned the Lotus Elise). 

Building upon a previous redesign by Peter Stevens, the car featured new front and rear bumpers, along with a redesigned spoiler. The result gave the classic wedge a more contemporary feel. 

However, the biggest change for the Esprit came in 1996, with the arrival of a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V8. The mid-mounted ‘Type 918’ engine delivered a substantial 350hp – and had a Lotus-like kerb weight of less than 1,400kg to contend with. 

The result was the ability to sprint from 0-60mph in 4.8 seconds, plus a potential top speed of 175mph.

Pressed into service

The Esprit V8 up for auction with Bonhams Online was produced in late 1997, although as a 1998 model-year car. In range-topping SE trim, it came with features such as air conditioning and Muirhead leather trim. 

Finished in Titanium metallic paint, with an interior upholstered in Raffia leather, it is said to be the only 1998 V8 SE in this specification. Pop-up headlights are present and correct, of course, with six-spoke OZ Racing alloy wheels also fitted.

Registered in December 1997, the Esprit became part of the Lotus press fleet from new. It remained as a demonstrator until August 1999, covering 7,000 miles in the hands of journalists along the way.

Later passing through four more owners, the Lotus was purchased by its current vendor in May 2020. Only 1,000 miles have been added to the odometer since then, with a total of 48,500 miles now shown.

Time to relive the 1990s

The service book included with the Esprit shows 17 stamps from either Lotus main dealerships or specialists. Some £11,000 was spent in October 2020 on engine maintenance, including an overhaul of the turbochargers and cambelt replacements. 

For those who would prefer a Lotus performance car without a battery-electric powertrain, this V8-engined Esprit could be the answer. 

Bonhams Online has provided a guide price of between £35,000 and £45,000, with a number of bids already placed. Bidding remains open until 11 July 2024, so there is still time to plan a summer of V8 fun.