‘Holy Grail’ Lotus Esprit Turbo Up For Auction

The fact that the Lotus Esprit lasted from 1976 to 2004 is a testament to its timeless design. Originally penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro and getting starring roles in a few James Bond films, the Esprit is a car likely on most people’s ‘must have’ dream lists. And now, you have the chance to fulfill those dreams with what could be the perfect example up for sale.

The Market, an auction site in the U.K., has this 1987 Lotus Esprit Turbo HC (high compression) Limited Edition up for grabs with no reserve. Described as the ‘Holy Grail’ of the Esprit family, not only is this Lotus in pristine condition, but it’s also number 10 of just 21 Limited Edition cars that rolled out of the factory in Hethel. This model also has the high-spec 2.2-liter turbocharged inline four with 215hp and 220lb ft of torque.

Part of the reason for its excellent condition is that it spent 14 years in a private collection in Portugal, off the roads and away from sunlight. Indeed its Essex Blue paintwork is near blemish-free.

The interior is also in remarkably good shape, with just slight wear on the driver’s seat. it even comes with its original Clarion stereo with graphic equalizer, and a set of luggage made with the same materials as the interior.

The latest owner had planned to make this his ‘forever car’, and spent in excess of £10,000 (around $12,000 USD) on refurbishing the engine and gearbox, the suspension and other mechanicals. But plans change, and as the saying goes, ‘his loss could be your gain’. The Market expects this Esprit to fetch between £40,000 and £50,000 ($50,000 to $62,000 USD) when the auction ends on April 13.

*Images courtesy of The Market