1985 LOTUS TURBO ESPRIT S3

1985 Lotus Esprit

Founded by (Anthony) Colin (Bruce) Chapman in 1952 (his full initials, CBC still appear on the Lotus badge to this day), otus has always produced some of the most exciting and innovative cars ever built. Their principle focus has always been the combination of a lightweight, erodynamic body coupled with a highly-tuned, mall displacement engine and a chassis with phenomenal handling.

Perhaps most famous for its sub-aquatic appearance alongside Roger Moore's James Bond, n The Spy Who Loved Me, he Lotus Esprit has long been somewhat (yet wholly undeservedly) overlooked, n the Pantheon of Supercars. Imbued with phenomenal performance, hat could make some of Italy's finest blush and breathtaking styling that commands attention, t was initially shown as a concept vehicle, ased on the Lotus Europa, t the Turin Motor Show in 1972. Styled by the legendary designer of the Maserati Ghibli and BMW M1 (amongst many others), iorgetto Giugaro, t began production in 1976 and was a perfect example of Chapman's winning lightweight/aerodynamic/great handling formula. The stunning wedge-shaped design was produced until 1987 and is considered the most iconic iteration of the Esprit.

This is a gorgeous, wo-owner, alifornia car with just 20,000 original miles, n excellent condition throughout. Finished in Calypso Red with Tan leather, t is truly breathtaking. Furthermore, t has just undergone a $10,000 overhaul, ncluding engine, lutch and brakes. Consequently, t runs and drives as good as it looks.

Very much an up and coming classic, sprit prices are on the rise, articularly the Giugaro models, aking this low mileage, ell-maintained example a tremendous find, oth from a collectability and an investment standpoint.