Unlock the Secrets of F1 Tech: Own This Rare Lotus Esprit Turbo

When you think of the Lotus Esprit, various images may come to mind—sleek lines, a renowned reputation in the automotive world, and its cinematic fame in James Bond films. Yet, one very special 1980 Lotus Esprit 'Essex' Turbo stands distinctively apart from its peers, as it comes fitted with an experimental active suspension system originally designed for Formula One racing. This remarkable car isn’t just a sophisticated piece of machinery; it’s a time capsule that holds within it the pioneering technology that propelled Lotus Engineering into the racing stratosphere.

A Glimpse Into History: The Rise of the Esprit

Created as a pre-production model in 1980, this Lotus Esprit has a compelling backstory. Initially, it was loaned to the DeLorean company—yes, the infamous DMC DeLorean—and was later returned to Lotus, where it underwent significant modifications. Lotus Engineering equipped it with an active suspension system that had been in development for use in Formula One, highlighting Lotus's innovative spirit, and their commitment to blending road and racing technologies.

Distinctive Design and Features

Behold the visual splendor of this car, adorned with the iconic John Player Special (JPS) colors, as JPS was the sponsor of the Lotus F1 Team during that era. The car’s aesthetic appeal adds to its desirability, and it also participated in various promotional activities, even making an appearance on the popular television show Top Gear, where racing legend Nigel Mansell took it for a spin.

Yet, after its promotional duties wrapped up, it found itself tucked away in a hanger, gathering dust. For many years, it was hidden from public view until Proton acquired Lotus in 1996. During this time, Brian Angus, a key figure within Lotus, fought to preserve the car instead of allowing it to be destroyed, as was the directive from the new management.

Rescue and Restoration

Fast forward to 2005; after a decade of dormancy, the prototype was rediscovered with much enthusiasm. Angus successfully lobbied for the vehicle's restoration, and it was extensively looked after, eventually going on display at the Lotus factory. The financial difficulties faced by Lotus in recent years led to its sale in 2016 to a former Lotus engineer and his son, who dedicated over £60,000, equivalent to $78,751 today, to restore it back to prime condition.

This restoration was no ordinary touch-up; it included a comprehensive overhaul of the engine and gearbox, along with new wiring, a complete brake refurbishment, and a new exhaust system. During the process, they painstakingly maintained the vehicle's original, hand-painted decals, ensuring that the car retained its historical authenticity.

Current Condition and Unique Technology

Although the car's active suspension and control panel still reside within the vehicle, they currently do not function as intended. Luckily, the seller has already made arrangements with a specialized company capable of restoring this groundbreaking F1 technology to full functionality. Owning such a historically significant car like this would be a dream for any automotive enthusiast, particularly if you appreciate its engineering legacy.

Putting a Price on History

With such an extraordinary history, it's no surprise that the auction house H and H is expecting this remarkable piece of automotive history to fetch between £70,000 to £80,000, translating to $91,876 to $105,000 at current exchange rates. For that investment, you wouldn’t just be acquiring a car; you’d be welcoming a piece of F1 history into your life.

Conclusion: A True Collector's Dream

This rare Lotus Esprit 'Essex' Turbo represents more than just a vehicle; it embodies the innovation, competitiveness, and passion that are the hallmarks of the automotive industry. As it stands poised for auction, one lucky collector will soon have the unique opportunity to lay claim to a piece of both motorsport and automotive charm. While others may be content with contemporary models, there’s something inherently special about owning a car that not only connects to Lotus's rich history but also showcases the experimental spirit that drives automotive progress.