1984 LOTUS ESPRIT TURBO

ENGINE 2174cc/4-cyl/DOHC POWER 210bhp@6250rpm TORQUE 200lb ft@4500rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 145mph 0-60MPH 6.1sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-22mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, five-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 101,360 miles

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?

This car hadn’t run for a few weeks before our drive, but started willingly and soon cleared its throat. Power is plentiful throughout the rev range, accompanied by a healthy wastegate whoosh on the overrun, while the oil pressure settles at around 45-50psi. The clutch action is smooth, and the gearbox engages all gears evenly, provided you take a muscular approach. Rough surfaces don’t upset the car’s composure, only very light steering inputs are required at cruising speed and there are no wobbles or vibrations. The brakes are firm and effective. Overall the running gear feels tight and responsive.

BODYWORK CHECK

It’s a very tidy-looking machine. Close scrutiny of the Calypso Red bodywork reveals a couple of tiny cracks in the paint on the front and rear bumpers, plus some patina on the door handles and a small chip on the fuel cap, but the overall condition is excellent. The 15inch BBS alloys are unmarked and fitted with as-new Dunlop tyres – 195/60 at the front and 225/60 at the rear. The glass is spot on all round, including the optional glass roof, and the lamps are undamaged. Both headlights pop up on demand.

HOW’S THE INTERIOR?

The full leather cockpit has recently been reconnolised and is free from splits and tears. It also benefits from new carpets. The passenger door seal is starting to lift in one corner; it creates a little wind noise, but doesn’t appear to have caused any water ingress. An aftermarket Kenwood CD player and speaker system is fitted. The perfectionist might wish to replace the wooden gear knob (the varnish is showing its age), but nothing else is amiss.

UNDER THE BONNET

The seller is able to provide a good quantity of photos showing recent work, which includes a full engine rebuild in 2014, fewer than 2000 miles ago. This was carried out by an independent Lotus specialist at a cost of £8740. Other recent mechanical work includes fitment of a new clutch, fuel tanks (a common rot spot) and brake calipers, plus turbo refurbishment. The engine bay is clean and tidy with no frayed wiring, leaks or significant rust.

THE CCW VIEW

This enjoyable British legend feels ready for track use or weekends in the country. We’d want to keep an eye on the passenger door seal and replace the CD player with a more original-looking cassette player, and while these galvanised Esprits are reportedly not prone to serious corrosion, application of underseal would be wise. The glass roof and bright colour make this an ideal choice for the coming summer months. The seller is a knowledgeable Esprit fanatic, which should inspire confidence if you’re new to the marque. Theo Ford-Sagers