Lotus Esprit (84-03) - Review

Review by Parkers on
The Esprit, with its distinctive wedge shape, seems to have been around forever. It first went on sale in 1976, but has been successfully re-styled for each generation. The last UK cars were sold during 2002, though the production line carried on until 2004, to cater for US demand. Prices are seriously tempting, and for the generation that grew up with Roger Moore's amphibious Union-Jacked Esprit, now could be the ideal time to buy.
4 out of 5

Other Lotus reviews

3 out of 5

Comfort

The last of line cars were the most refined, and had comfortable cabins, better instrumentation and a decent amount of space for the driver. However, the interior lacked the sense of occasion that greets drivers of Ferraris and Lamborghinis. Early cars look surprisingly spartan, later cars are plusher; some with Connolly leather seats and burr wood finished.

1.5 out of 5

Practicality

Small boot and few other places for your odds and ends, but practicality isn't the reason to buy an Esprit.

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4 out of 5

Behind the wheel

Cars with the large sunroof feel light and airy. Low-slung driving position makes you feel at one with the car. Later cars have a better dash (although you can spot plenty of switchgear from far more mundane cars). Handbrake is located on the left-hand side, but stays out of the way, even when it's in use. Cars made before 1988 had air vents in odd places (like the knees); sorted on later cars. Narrow footwell.