Lotus Esprit Generation 3 Models for Sale

History and Features

Introduction

The Lotus Esprit is an iconic British sports car that has captured the hearts and minds of automotive enthusiasts around the world. The third generation of the Lotus Esprit, also known as the Esprit S3, was produced from 1981 to 1987. Building upon the success of its predecessors, the Generation 3 Esprit brought several advancements in design, technology, and performance.

Design

The Lotus Esprit Generation 3 featured a striking design that was ahead of its time. With its sleek and wedge-shaped body, the car had a low drag coefficient and an aggressive stance. The pop-up headlights, a signature feature of the Esprit, added to the car's futuristic appeal. The improved aerodynamics of the Generation 3 Esprit not only enhanced its visual appeal but also improved its performance on the road.

Performance

The Generation 3 Esprit boasted impressive performance figures for its time. Powered by a turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four engine, the Esprit S3 produced around 210 horsepower. This allowed the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 6 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars of its era. The lightweight fiberglass body and advanced suspension system contributed to the Esprit's agile handling and superb road-holding capabilities.

Interior

The interior of the Lotus Esprit Generation 3 was a blend of sportiness and luxury. The cabin featured supportive leather seats, a driver-oriented dashboard, and a stylish three-spoke steering wheel. Despite its compact size, the Esprit offered a surprising amount of legroom and headroom for both the driver and passenger. The Generation 3 Esprit also came with modern amenities such as air conditioning, power windows, and a high-quality sound system.

Legacy

The Lotus Esprit Generation 3 is considered by many as the pinnacle of the Esprit lineup. Its combination of stunning design, exhilarating performance, and luxurious interior made it a popular choice among sports car enthusiasts. The car also gained international fame when it appeared in the 1981 James Bond film "For Your Eyes Only," further solidifying its status as an automotive icon.

Rarity and Collectability

As with many classic cars, the Lotus Esprit Generation 3 has become highly sought after by collectors. Its limited production run and timeless design have made it a rare find in today's market. Well-preserved examples of the Generation 3 Esprit command significant prices, and enthusiasts are willing to pay a premium for a well-maintained and original example. Owning a Generation 3 Esprit is not only a testament to one's passion for automotive history but also an investment in a piece of automotive art.

Conclusion

The Lotus Esprit Generation 3 represents the pinnacle of British sports car design and engineering. With its striking design, exhilarating performance, and luxurious interior, it continues to captivate enthusiasts today. Whether as a collector's item or a weekend driver, the Generation 3 Esprit is a testament to Lotus' commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive excellence.