After a huge amount of speculation Lotus have unveiled the facelifted Esprit. 2002 will mark a milestone year for the car which was first unveiled as a styling concept at the 1972 Turin Motorshow. It entered production in the mid 1970's and is still one of the world's most desirable sportscars.
To celebrate 30 years of this performance car, Lotus has given the Esprit a facelift as Russell Carr, Chief of Design at Lotus, explains: "The Lotus Esprit is an iconic design, a classic blend of traditional supercar razor sharp edges combined with design elements that have evolved over three decades. Therefore decided not to change the car dramatically for 2002 as this would be changing the true spirit of the Esprit, a classic supercar."
The redesigned rear panel and light cluster, which features round rear lights set in pairs, carry over some of the Elise design elements. The front of the Esprit has inherited the lip spoiler from the Sport 350 ensuring greater stability at very high speeds.
Inside
Many subtle changes can also be seen in the interior too. The new high backed seats featuring an embossed Lotus logo are available in two tone leather and are a no cost option. A distinct aluminium theme features throughout the interior encompassing the gear lever, handbrake sleeve, inner door panel and new inner door sill which also features the Lotus logo.
Wheels
The new "crystal titanium" finish multi spoke OZ Racing alloy wheels hide powerful 4-pot calipers with an advanced Kelsey Hayes ABS system. Stopping power is further enhanced with the use of 320mm diameter AP Racing two piece brake discs which are both vented and cross-drilled, front and rear. The race specification calipers, pads and discs ensure that the Esprit stops as well as it goes as well as providing ample cooling for hard usage.
Engine
The 1380kg Esprit V8 is powered by the Lotus designed 3.5 litre twin turbocharged V8 engine producing 350 hp at 6,500 rpm. Lotus allude to the fact that racing versions of the same unit are currently producing over 550 hp with very few changes. The engine is compact and lightweight (weighing less than 220kg complete with all ancillaries). A wide torque band with a peak of 295 ft.lb provides rapid acceleration without the need to cane it.
Price
The 2002 Lotus Esprit is on sale from the beginning of December 2001 priced at £49,995 RRP in the UK and €69, 890 (before tax) in mainland Europe.
Performance
Top speed 175 mph (280 km/h)
0-60 mph 4.8s
0-100 km/h 4.9s
0-100 mph 10.54s
0-160 km/h 10.3s
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