What are your opinions on this matter...long
Discussion
I just wanted to get some insight from "Owners" of the legend as to what you think of my "situation".
Since I was 13 I have been obsessed with Lotus cars, I mean totally fanatic about them. Thats all I talked about, but being 22 I have to of course ease it down a bit because people think im nuts sometimes. I talk about these cars, the company, and the legend like I own a fleet of them. But, I dont own not one. Only though because I am only 22 and have other goals to accomplish first and foremost, like getting my bachelors or masters, moving out etc etc.
Thing is, I feel sort of like an odd ball when I go to Lotus Enthusiast meetings without a Lotus! I mean dont get me wrong, the people I meet are fantastic and obviously share the experience. I love to hear from fanatical owners about their experiences with the car, and what it is like living with one. I use all of this data to fuel my dreams.
I guess I am in this mood right now because over the weekend the nice people at Huntingridge Motors in NY allowed the experience to see, touch, AND the best part SIT in 3 Lotus's I have NEVER seen before in my life. The anticipation was well worth it. I got to sit in a 340R!! Take pics and everything! It was so amaZing. Then we got to talking about the Elise and how the only time I saw one was at the Auto show. Well, he says to me we have one right in here and takes a cover off to reveal an Elise Sport. Amazing but it gets better! Then I say how I like the EXIGE better than the Elise but have never seen one. Wouldnt you know it, follow me he says AND there it was on a lift, a silver Exige!! And behind me, his very own Yellow Esprit V8. It was an amazing day.
Okay back to the topic at hand. See how I get side tracked. The situation is, when I am at meets or at dealers and I talk so enthusiastically about the Marque, knowledgeable and all, and they assume I own one. But when they ask "which ones yours" on one hand I get a bit embarassed because I have to say "I dont own one", on the other hand should I feel this way?
I dont want to be a burden to anyone.
For instance I want to go to the meets this summer, but what am I gonna do be a passenger in someones ride? You know where im gettin at?
Since I was 13 I have been obsessed with Lotus cars, I mean totally fanatic about them. Thats all I talked about, but being 22 I have to of course ease it down a bit because people think im nuts sometimes. I talk about these cars, the company, and the legend like I own a fleet of them. But, I dont own not one. Only though because I am only 22 and have other goals to accomplish first and foremost, like getting my bachelors or masters, moving out etc etc.
Thing is, I feel sort of like an odd ball when I go to Lotus Enthusiast meetings without a Lotus! I mean dont get me wrong, the people I meet are fantastic and obviously share the experience. I love to hear from fanatical owners about their experiences with the car, and what it is like living with one. I use all of this data to fuel my dreams.
I guess I am in this mood right now because over the weekend the nice people at Huntingridge Motors in NY allowed the experience to see, touch, AND the best part SIT in 3 Lotus's I have NEVER seen before in my life. The anticipation was well worth it. I got to sit in a 340R!! Take pics and everything! It was so amaZing. Then we got to talking about the Elise and how the only time I saw one was at the Auto show. Well, he says to me we have one right in here and takes a cover off to reveal an Elise Sport. Amazing but it gets better! Then I say how I like the EXIGE better than the Elise but have never seen one. Wouldnt you know it, follow me he says AND there it was on a lift, a silver Exige!! And behind me, his very own Yellow Esprit V8. It was an amazing day.
Okay back to the topic at hand. See how I get side tracked. The situation is, when I am at meets or at dealers and I talk so enthusiastically about the Marque, knowledgeable and all, and they assume I own one. But when they ask "which ones yours" on one hand I get a bit embarassed because I have to say "I dont own one", on the other hand should I feel this way?
I dont want to be a burden to anyone.
For instance I want to go to the meets this summer, but what am I gonna do be a passenger in someones ride? You know where im gettin at?
I tell you what, I'd be happier talking to someone like you, someone who loves the marquee without even having one and longs to buy one, than someone who has one and doesn't have the fire.
When someone asks (it's not rude to assume you have one...it IS a Lotus car meet) just tell them the truth. You don't have one...YET. At 22, no one expects you to have one yet. Those who do at that age are very fortunate.
A response like that will likely start a great conversation about which model you'd most like to buy and why. Maybe you'll gain some added insight towards that end as well talking to people.
Anyways, I thought yours was a great, honest post. I'll be at LOG this year...if you go, we'll go for a spin! Just look for the beauty in my profile (the car, not the girl
)
Mike
When someone asks (it's not rude to assume you have one...it IS a Lotus car meet) just tell them the truth. You don't have one...YET. At 22, no one expects you to have one yet. Those who do at that age are very fortunate.
A response like that will likely start a great conversation about which model you'd most like to buy and why. Maybe you'll gain some added insight towards that end as well talking to people.
Anyways, I thought yours was a great, honest post. I'll be at LOG this year...if you go, we'll go for a spin! Just look for the beauty in my profile (the car, not the girl
) Mike
i didnt have one at 22 eaither I wanted one but it was alot of money so igot a nissan 300zx. Now I have an s4s and I love it.. just keep stackin chips and youll get there. If your handy with a wrench, you could get one sooner than you think. Sometimes great deals on older esprits come up....
Thank you for your responses! Yet another fine example of how courteous true Lotus enthusiasts are.
Madmike - Your are very right in what you say. And the funny thing is I have your car as my Desktop background at home!
(hope u dont mind) The Esprit SE is my favorite Lotus. Mostly due to the fact that it was the first Lotus I have ever knowingly laid on eyes when I was 13 years old. I was hooked in seconds. I want a white SE, but recently (after seeing your red SE and another pristing red SE at the autoshow) i'll settle for red 
LOL I'll settle for any color really. What Meets are you going to be at may I ask? If I am there I will most certainly take you up on the offer for a 'spin'.
Solar - Got to start somewhere right! I was thinking most definately in the next 3 years max I will be able to afford either the US Elise, OR an SE or S4 Esprit. (the S4 is my second love par only to the SE) I guess its all about where im living, financials for wrenching etc etc. The Elise is great, but the Esprit is where my heat is at for now. Although like I said, depending on where I live, I may have to settle for an Elise first. (No problems with that!)
d didit - I love the S4, second only to the SE. My dream is to own a White SE(tan interior) and a white S4 (red interior; dont ask, something about the red). I loved the S4 the second I recognized it as a new Esprit Lotus in the January or february issue of Sports Car International in 1994 I believe it was. If ever I am in the Ventura area I will gladly take you up on your offer!
What it comes down to is a matter of when the time is right to be able to afford one and own one. I can wrench certain things on my own, but things like pulling the engine, or fabricating serious stuff is not my deal. But I would be willing to learn. I dont know, to me Lotus is not a car, I look at the dream of owning an Esprit or two and not think it of owning a vehicle, but rather a Legend, a persona of who I am.
Madmike - Your are very right in what you say. And the funny thing is I have your car as my Desktop background at home!
(hope u dont mind) The Esprit SE is my favorite Lotus. Mostly due to the fact that it was the first Lotus I have ever knowingly laid on eyes when I was 13 years old. I was hooked in seconds. I want a white SE, but recently (after seeing your red SE and another pristing red SE at the autoshow) i'll settle for red LOL I'll settle for any color really. What Meets are you going to be at may I ask? If I am there I will most certainly take you up on the offer for a 'spin'. Solar - Got to start somewhere right! I was thinking most definately in the next 3 years max I will be able to afford either the US Elise, OR an SE or S4 Esprit. (the S4 is my second love par only to the SE) I guess its all about where im living, financials for wrenching etc etc. The Elise is great, but the Esprit is where my heat is at for now. Although like I said, depending on where I live, I may have to settle for an Elise first. (No problems with that!)
d didit - I love the S4, second only to the SE. My dream is to own a White SE(tan interior) and a white S4 (red interior; dont ask, something about the red). I loved the S4 the second I recognized it as a new Esprit Lotus in the January or february issue of Sports Car International in 1994 I believe it was. If ever I am in the Ventura area I will gladly take you up on your offer!
What it comes down to is a matter of when the time is right to be able to afford one and own one. I can wrench certain things on my own, but things like pulling the engine, or fabricating serious stuff is not my deal. But I would be willing to learn. I dont know, to me Lotus is not a car, I look at the dream of owning an Esprit or two and not think it of owning a vehicle, but rather a Legend, a persona of who I am.
While you have a fine attitude, owning one is much like anything else, it is much different than wanting one. If you want it bad enough you will find a way to get one. Many of us do not have other vices that divert our resources away. We do not gamble or take fancy vacations for the most part. The car is what we choose to spend our money on. Some do have resources to have it all and there is nothing wrong with that either as at some point they have paid their dues.
Good Luck on your quest.
Calvin
Good Luck on your quest.
Calvin
LotusACBC said:
Madmike - Your are very right in what you say. And the funny thing is I have your car as my Desktop background at home!
Mind? Mind?!?! Wow, I'm honored!!!
Which picture are you using???
You just gauranteed a spin! I'll be at LOG in NY this year (near Niagra Falls.)
Also, if you are ever near DC, give me a ring!
Mike
I'm a lifelong Lotus enthusiast.
Like many people, I couldn't afford a real one at first.
In the UK, Westfield make a pretty close kit car copy of the Seven, so I started there. It cost me £4250 to build back in 1986.
I moved on to Minis, MGB V8s and fast bikes, but I clearly had Lotus fluid in my veins, because it wasn't long before I ended up with a Caterham Seven and then an Esprit.
The Esprit is an infuriating animal, because it is fairly fragile and likes lots of attention, but it retains the raw qualities of the Seven and yet is completely exotic in terms of style and performance.
Probably the purest Lotus is the original Elan, but these fetch a real premium even in the UK.
Lotus cars like lots of TLC, so it helps if you know how to use a spanner. Because of their appetite for mechanical attention, there is some sense in buying one that you can work on yourself.
You may be a brilliant mechanic, but for me routine maintenance on a 16 year old Esprit is about the limit. A V8 Esprit would frighten me to death in terms of the potential for expense.
If I wasn't too tall, I reckon that a Caterham Seven is a good compromise, providing that you have an old banger for daily use.
This type of Lotus designed car is really well within the mechanical and financial means of most determined potential owners.
Why not start with a Seven?
Like many people, I couldn't afford a real one at first.
In the UK, Westfield make a pretty close kit car copy of the Seven, so I started there. It cost me £4250 to build back in 1986.
I moved on to Minis, MGB V8s and fast bikes, but I clearly had Lotus fluid in my veins, because it wasn't long before I ended up with a Caterham Seven and then an Esprit.
The Esprit is an infuriating animal, because it is fairly fragile and likes lots of attention, but it retains the raw qualities of the Seven and yet is completely exotic in terms of style and performance.
Probably the purest Lotus is the original Elan, but these fetch a real premium even in the UK.
Lotus cars like lots of TLC, so it helps if you know how to use a spanner. Because of their appetite for mechanical attention, there is some sense in buying one that you can work on yourself.
You may be a brilliant mechanic, but for me routine maintenance on a 16 year old Esprit is about the limit. A V8 Esprit would frighten me to death in terms of the potential for expense.
If I wasn't too tall, I reckon that a Caterham Seven is a good compromise, providing that you have an old banger for daily use.
This type of Lotus designed car is really well within the mechanical and financial means of most determined potential owners.
Why not start with a Seven?
cnh1990 - I understand that completely. If sacrifice is the means to own one, then so be it.
Madmike - Im not sure if I will be able to get to the Niagra Falls meet but I do want to go. Its just, kind of strange to travel 8 hours when I dont even own a Lotus and wouldnt be able to participate in any of the events. Im undecided as to if I am going. The pic I have on my desktop is the best pic if your car in my opinion: The Second Zaino pic! Totally captures the essence of the SE.
Patheald - while your suggestions for a more liable Lotus canidate is well taken, I dont quote have the drive for them as much or as close to as I have for the Esprit or Elise/Elan. I think my satisfaction and goal would be better set on the Esprit I desire, and if it takes years, so be it!!
The day I am handed the keys to my very own Lotus will be a very well documented and exciting day. I cant wait!
By the way, in the near future I will begin work on my very own Lotus website without using a "free" domain. I want to have pics of my Lotus encounters, and also pics from all Lotus owners who choose to send them to me. I will keep everyone updated, but it wont be for atleast a few weeks.
>> Edited by LotusACBC on Tuesday 24th June 20:21
Madmike - Im not sure if I will be able to get to the Niagra Falls meet but I do want to go. Its just, kind of strange to travel 8 hours when I dont even own a Lotus and wouldnt be able to participate in any of the events. Im undecided as to if I am going. The pic I have on my desktop is the best pic if your car in my opinion: The Second Zaino pic! Totally captures the essence of the SE.
Patheald - while your suggestions for a more liable Lotus canidate is well taken, I dont quote have the drive for them as much or as close to as I have for the Esprit or Elise/Elan. I think my satisfaction and goal would be better set on the Esprit I desire, and if it takes years, so be it!!
The day I am handed the keys to my very own Lotus will be a very well documented and exciting day. I cant wait!
By the way, in the near future I will begin work on my very own Lotus website without using a "free" domain. I want to have pics of my Lotus encounters, and also pics from all Lotus owners who choose to send them to me. I will keep everyone updated, but it wont be for atleast a few weeks.
>> Edited by LotusACBC on Tuesday 24th June 20:21
It is very possible to be in the late teens or early 20's and own a Lotus. Living at home and spending all your money on the car has been done.
I do realize that many do have other plans and ambitions but it is a nice break to have one for a while.
While I did this myself then took a 15 year break from Lotus cars. I am back and much better able to keep one up, not to mention less irresponsible.
It would be strange to Go to a LOG (Lotus Owners Gathering) without a Lotus. But I don't think it is a requirement. Make a friend and go as a guest of an owner if it bothers you. There are activites that you can participate. You could write the best story about why you did not bring your Lotus to LOG contest. Or the hardest luck story contest.
Good Luck,
Calvin
I do realize that many do have other plans and ambitions but it is a nice break to have one for a while.
While I did this myself then took a 15 year break from Lotus cars. I am back and much better able to keep one up, not to mention less irresponsible.
It would be strange to Go to a LOG (Lotus Owners Gathering) without a Lotus. But I don't think it is a requirement. Make a friend and go as a guest of an owner if it bothers you. There are activites that you can participate. You could write the best story about why you did not bring your Lotus to LOG contest. Or the hardest luck story contest.
Good Luck,
Calvin
cnh1990 said:
It is very possible to be in the late teens or early 20's and own a Lotus. Living at home and spending all your money on the car has been done.
I do realize that many do have other plans and ambitions but it is a nice break to have one for a while.
While I did this myself then took a 15 year break from Lotus cars. I am back and much better able to keep one up, not to mention less irresponsible.
It would be strange to Go to a LOG (Lotus Owners Gathering) without a Lotus. But I don't think it is a requirement. Make a friend and go as a guest of an owner if it bothers you. There are activites that you can participate. You could write the best story about why you did not bring your Lotus to LOG contest. Or the hardest luck story contest.
Good Luck,
Calvin
LOL writing about it is not a bad idea. I have no shame showing up with no Lotus, but it IS an enthusiast group, so your right I am not required to show up with a Lotus. Im just the only nut silly enough to!
But on another note, I am a writer, and I could always bring my video camera and do some journaling or capture the moments of the club. Thats an idea.
Technically, I COULD own an Esprit SE or S4 right now and dont think I havent been tempted too. But I have strong responsibilities and want to take care of that first.
Hi there just for a bit of encouragement I have gone down exactly the same route as yourself always admiring the marque fanatically and at the age of 25 I bought a silver S4 Esprit, a lifetime ambition complete. If you ever own one, you will love it and everything comes to he who waits.
>> Edited by paf291x on Tuesday 24th June 21:20
>> Edited by paf291x on Tuesday 24th June 21:20
paf291x said:
Hi there just for a bit of encouragement I have gone down exactly the same route as yourself always admiring the marque fanatically and at the age of 25 I bought a silver S4 Esprit, a lifetime ambition complete. If you ever own one, you will love it and everything comes to he who waits.
>> Edited by paf291x on Tuesday 24th June 21:20
Thank you! That is veyr motivating! I figure about 25 years of age I will own one as well if all goes well. Thanks again!
On a side note: I just saw this on Ebay - - I cant believe the price: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2420667788&category=6312
>> Edited by LotusACBC on Tuesday 24th June 21:26
Good luck on your quest--I was the same way at 22 also. I saw that red 'SE in that cheezy Bond-like movie (see in Fact File/movies) and all the other films/car mags etc. and was hooked on the Esprit. Except I had to wait a little bit longer to get mine--4 years of college, 1 year grad school, 4 years med school, 3 years of residency, and 2 years of practice until (whew, alot of work for a car, huh?) finally acquiring my red '02 Esprit. At least now at age 33 the insurance cost isn't that bad. If you are ever in Greenville, S.C. I'll be glad to take you for a spin too. And as far as that '98 Esprit on e-bay it is as the owner states--immaculate condition in/out with all records documented. I test drove it and almost bought it before seeing the '02 come available (couldn't pass up the year of warranty remaining). Really good guy named Jeremy owns it in Shelby, N.C. You might get one earlier if your luck is good--Powerball is >100 million tomorrow. I know I would get more Loti if I were to win!
Brad '02V8
Brad '02V8
Hey,
Tossing aside all the lofty platitudes which have graced this thread for a moment, you have nothing to apologize for...yet.
The difference between a dream and realizing it is action. Make a plan, down to the very day that you will turn the key on your own Lotus, write it down and follow it, come what may.
If it's a good plan, and your strength of will is up to it, you'll be a member of the 'Owner's Club' in no time.
And, perhaps even better than the feel of owning your own Lotus, will be the satisfaction you derive from achieving such an accomplishment through planning, sacrifice and work. It's guaranteed to sweeten the experience.
Good Luck, keep your eye on the goal and let us know if/when we can help. Happy Motoring! Jim'85TE
Tossing aside all the lofty platitudes which have graced this thread for a moment, you have nothing to apologize for...yet.
The difference between a dream and realizing it is action. Make a plan, down to the very day that you will turn the key on your own Lotus, write it down and follow it, come what may.
If it's a good plan, and your strength of will is up to it, you'll be a member of the 'Owner's Club' in no time.
And, perhaps even better than the feel of owning your own Lotus, will be the satisfaction you derive from achieving such an accomplishment through planning, sacrifice and work. It's guaranteed to sweeten the experience.
Good Luck, keep your eye on the goal and let us know if/when we can help. Happy Motoring! Jim'85TE
ACBC, you are correct in stating that this is a great group of people. Where else can you ask a question (no matter how silly) or get opinions than from this fantastic group!
As for your fantasy of owning a Lotus... trust me....with your determination you will own one. I was in the same boat as you in my late teens...constantly thinking of having such a car.... doing the Homer Simpson drool when I saw an Esprit in a car magazine.... getting totally transfixed when I saw one at a car show. Yep.... been there, done that. Found out that behavior has a name and it is called LOTUS FEVER!!!
But, I took care of my priorities (education, etc) and here I am now at 37 and driving a car that has been in my dreams for around 20 years! It is truly a great feeling of accomplishment! I've had my red '97 V8 for 6 months now and still cannot believe I have it.
The wait is definitely worth it!
Good Luck!
Michael
Red '97 V8
As for your fantasy of owning a Lotus... trust me....with your determination you will own one. I was in the same boat as you in my late teens...constantly thinking of having such a car.... doing the Homer Simpson drool when I saw an Esprit in a car magazine.... getting totally transfixed when I saw one at a car show. Yep.... been there, done that. Found out that behavior has a name and it is called LOTUS FEVER!!!
But, I took care of my priorities (education, etc) and here I am now at 37 and driving a car that has been in my dreams for around 20 years! It is truly a great feeling of accomplishment! I've had my red '97 V8 for 6 months now and still cannot believe I have it.
The wait is definitely worth it!
Good Luck!
Michael
Red '97 V8
Thanks again for all the advice and ecouragement. And thank you for making me feel a part of the 'club' without owning a piece of the glory.
I have tosay congratulations on you guys who had the same dream and accomplished them. I dont care if it take me to 30 years old either, so long as I fulfill my goal.
I will look into the LOG coming up, and hopefully I will be able to get there!
I have tosay congratulations on you guys who had the same dream and accomplished them. I dont care if it take me to 30 years old either, so long as I fulfill my goal.
I will look into the LOG coming up, and hopefully I will be able to get there!
I too always wanted an Esprit so at my 1st pay packet I started to save. 10 years later I have almost the model that I wanted but I dont really mind cos I have an Esprit. BRG Turbo from 1986 only 2 owners including me and low 26k on the clock. I have just enough cash to run her and it seems that about every 1000 miles she needs cash spent on her to keep her running but hey its not a car you see everyday. So start to save and when like me you get to 31 you can get the car.
jazzy said:
I too always wanted an Esprit so at my 1st pay packet I started to save. 10 years later I have almost the model that I wanted but I dont really mind cos I have an Esprit. BRG Turbo from 1986 only 2 owners including me and low 26k on the clock. I have just enough cash to run her and it seems that about every 1000 miles she needs cash spent on her to keep her running but hey its not a car you see everyday. So start to save and when like me you get to 31 you can get the car.
Yeah I have been trying to save but like everything. one thing goes wrong and there goes your cash. And something always goes wrong.
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