1986 Lotus Esprit Series 3
(Featured on 9th July 2013)
Make: Lotus
Model: Esprit
Year: 1986
Sellers original description:
A sensational and cherished Lotus Esprit Series 3 with only 42,913 miles from new.
EQUIPMENT:
Impact resistant GFRP bodywork, mid-engine configuration, Colin Chapman designed zinc coated steel backbone chassis, double wishbone suspension, anti-dive geometry, rollover bulkhhead, cast aluminium side-impact protection bars, side air intakes, quadruple pop-up headlights, removable glass panel roof with Lotus storage bag, collapsible steering column, integral headrests, lumbar support, leather trimmed steering wheel, leather trimmed instrument binnancle, heated rear screen, hazard warning lights, water/oil pressure and ammeter gauges, electric windows, roof mounted digital clock, electric door mirrors.
EXTERIOR:
Guaranteed to turn heads wherever it goes, Giugiaro’s aerodynamically styled bodyshape looks striking at any angle. Finished in luscious Calpyso Red, (Code A23) this vehicle has a glossy polished shine with a mirror reflection. The lightweight GFRP bodywork has no stress fractures, scuffs or scratches and only a few touched-in tiny stone chips can be seen on close scrutiny. The trim, decals and rubbers are perfect and the original badges remain intact. The front screen has minor historic wiper marks and the front under body air dam a small curb fracture. A truly wonderful and iconic sports car.
INTERIOR:
Optional sumptuous Black Leather Connolly hide individually cut and sewn form part of the craftsmen hand trim interior but the build quality is far from Teutonic. Trim is functional but poor quality and ergonomically flawed. The feeling you get behind the wheel, however, continues to inspire legions of loyal followers who put up with the shortcomings to experience thoroughbred driving pleasure. All the interior controls, switches and gauges function correctly. A later stereo has been fitted along with bluetooth The matching clean red carpeting combined with fully adjustable anatomically sprung seats continue to evoke exhilarating feelings of speed and power.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION:
The Lotus lightweight alloy 2.2 litre Type 912 NA, (Normally Aspirated), engine develops 160bhp with 0-60 achieved in a mere 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 138mph. Regular maintenance, low mileage and expert care help ensure full enjoyment and tremendous fun. A recent new timing-belt and water pump with new Aldon electronic ignition provide excellent, safe reliability. A highly addictive exhaust note is provided courtesy full stainless sports exhaust system including the tubular manifold. The 5-speed all synchromesh transaxle with hydraulically operated clutch driving the rear wheels via plunging constant velocity drive shafts is precise and positive.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES:
Glorious 15” BBS alloy wheels are unmarked and shod in expensive new 195/60 R15 Pirelli Cinturato P6 tyres up front and 235/60 R15 Pirelli P600 at the rear. The 10.2” ventilated front discs and 10.8” air cooled rear discs operate on a hydraulic split circuit with vacuum servo giving superb stopping power. Recent new discs and pads with braided hoses inspire confidence.
HISTORY FILE:
Constantly enthusiast owned with a documented neatly filed history record will leave the new owner with no doubt the care and attention lavished on this wonderful example. Previous MOT history accurately logs the mileage covered and previous specialist sales invoices between only five former keepers reveal the sums paid between each change of owner. Fascinating. A loved, well cared for and prime example ready for a new lucky owner.
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