Magazine article
Discussion
Hi everyone
I'm deputy editor on Used Car Buyer magazine in the UK, and I'm going to be writing a big feature on the Esprit V8 for the July issue of the magazine.
While we are shooting an owners car this Friday (30 April 2004) for the magazine, that's the only time I will get to drive the car. I have driven a Turbo but that was nearly 15 years ago on the test track at Lotus in Hethal.
So what I would really appreciate is your feedback on buying and owning experiences:
How long have you wanted an Esprit
Did you buy new or used
Which one was/is it
How long have you had it
Any problems
Common faults
Is it used everyday or occassionally
What is it like to live with
Best things about it
Worst things about it
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
I'm really trying to get a feel for what it's like to buy and own an Esprit, and I really would like to do the feature justice as I myself have long been a fan of the Esprit and argued in its favour in our May issue of the magazine in the 'Car Court' section. I reckon I might have won the argument, as he did ask me to write the feature though!
Thanks for your help.
Shahzad
I'm deputy editor on Used Car Buyer magazine in the UK, and I'm going to be writing a big feature on the Esprit V8 for the July issue of the magazine.
While we are shooting an owners car this Friday (30 April 2004) for the magazine, that's the only time I will get to drive the car. I have driven a Turbo but that was nearly 15 years ago on the test track at Lotus in Hethal.
So what I would really appreciate is your feedback on buying and owning experiences:
How long have you wanted an Esprit
Did you buy new or used
Which one was/is it
How long have you had it
Any problems
Common faults
Is it used everyday or occassionally
What is it like to live with
Best things about it
Worst things about it
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
I'm really trying to get a feel for what it's like to buy and own an Esprit, and I really would like to do the feature justice as I myself have long been a fan of the Esprit and argued in its favour in our May issue of the magazine in the 'Car Court' section. I reckon I might have won the argument, as he did ask me to write the feature though!
Thanks for your help.
Shahzad
.How long have you wanted an Esprit:
Did not have a ‘life long’ ambition to own one. In fact I was going to buy a *cough* boxster back in 97 but put my money down on an M250 instead. Bought a GT3 esprit to drive whilst the M250 was on order.. M250 project cancelled, rest is history ;-) traded up to V8-GT after 12 months.
Did you buy new or used:
GT3 – used, 2 years old.
V8-GT – used, 3 years old.
Which one was/is it:
Current car is a 1998 V8-GT.
How long have you had it:
In my 4th year with the v8. 5th year of esprit ownership.
Any problems:
Yes. Leaking liners, re-cored turbos, new cat, new exhaust, failed aircon.
Common faults:
Just about all v8’s that are going to have liner problems will have been fixed by now. Exhausts can crack but its an easy fix. Cats can fail. 2nd gear syncron can easily be damaged by bad drivers.
Is it used everyday or occassionally:
Was every day transport for the first 2 ½ years. Now does far lower mileage (10k per year). In total i've done 40,000 miles in just over three years.
What is it like to live with:
More practical than people think. It has a great boot in the back and a smaller boot in the front. Been expensive to run, but never let me down.
Best things about it:
Handling, performance, looks, exclusivity, it's British, it has heritage (colin chapman, f1 etc)
Worst things about it:
Its expensive to run (but worth it IMO).
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc:
Shock, surprise..? They are pretty rare.. only 200 V8-GT's were made. Turns more heads than a ferrari. No negative reactions from anyone. Children stop and point. Make me more attractive to women.
Is that the sort of stuff you want..?
Did not have a ‘life long’ ambition to own one. In fact I was going to buy a *cough* boxster back in 97 but put my money down on an M250 instead. Bought a GT3 esprit to drive whilst the M250 was on order.. M250 project cancelled, rest is history ;-) traded up to V8-GT after 12 months.
Did you buy new or used:
GT3 – used, 2 years old.
V8-GT – used, 3 years old.
Which one was/is it:
Current car is a 1998 V8-GT.
How long have you had it:
In my 4th year with the v8. 5th year of esprit ownership.
Any problems:
Yes. Leaking liners, re-cored turbos, new cat, new exhaust, failed aircon.
Common faults:
Just about all v8’s that are going to have liner problems will have been fixed by now. Exhausts can crack but its an easy fix. Cats can fail. 2nd gear syncron can easily be damaged by bad drivers.
Is it used everyday or occassionally:
Was every day transport for the first 2 ½ years. Now does far lower mileage (10k per year). In total i've done 40,000 miles in just over three years.
What is it like to live with:
More practical than people think. It has a great boot in the back and a smaller boot in the front. Been expensive to run, but never let me down.
Best things about it:
Handling, performance, looks, exclusivity, it's British, it has heritage (colin chapman, f1 etc)
Worst things about it:
Its expensive to run (but worth it IMO).
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc:
Shock, surprise..? They are pretty rare.. only 200 V8-GT's were made. Turns more heads than a ferrari. No negative reactions from anyone. Children stop and point. Make me more attractive to women.
Is that the sort of stuff you want..?
How long have you wanted an Esprit
For 20ish years, Like so many I was captivated by the bond car in Spy who loved me. When I first saw the release of 'Stevens' I was smitten. It seemed at least to me to represent all that a Super Car should. Performance, Handling and stunning lines. The fact that it was British with its background was the icing on the cake.
Did you buy new or used
Sadly used, I also needed a house.
Which one was/is it
89 Turbo
How long have you had it
6 years
Any problems
A few engine faults to start with , Leaking drivshaft which are common, Leaking Fuel tank, broken throttle cable. Basically general not that much. Only other issue was the 'Pinking' of the paint work which I solved last years with a full respray.
Common faults
Drivshaft can leak but easy to solve.
Fuel tanks can seep after 10 or so years as they are wrapped in sponge and collect condensation or other water.
Headlamps can develop bounce, again due to ware of the linking arm but simple to fix.
Is it used everyday or occasionally
Mix of both, These days its for pleasure only but still rack up miles.
What is it like to live with
Fantastic, It never fails to bring a smile to my face and even now I still like to look at it and think ' I own that'. Also its surprisingly reliable (despite the rep) and only let me down once. Can be interesting to drive in the wet and you need to respect the turbo.
Best things about it
Its hard to name anything specific but I guess it would have to be the way you can cover ground and increasingly the community that surrounds it, oh and the popups.
Worst things about it
It can attract the wrong kind of attention with other drivers wanting to race you but I guess thats true of any Super car.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
Generally very positive apart from above. Its always pleasing to see the look on some lads face as you drive by, I remember being there.
>> Edited by unity1 on Monday 26th April 16:07
For 20ish years, Like so many I was captivated by the bond car in Spy who loved me. When I first saw the release of 'Stevens' I was smitten. It seemed at least to me to represent all that a Super Car should. Performance, Handling and stunning lines. The fact that it was British with its background was the icing on the cake.
Did you buy new or used
Sadly used, I also needed a house.
Which one was/is it
89 Turbo
How long have you had it
6 years
Any problems
A few engine faults to start with , Leaking drivshaft which are common, Leaking Fuel tank, broken throttle cable. Basically general not that much. Only other issue was the 'Pinking' of the paint work which I solved last years with a full respray.
Common faults
Drivshaft can leak but easy to solve.
Fuel tanks can seep after 10 or so years as they are wrapped in sponge and collect condensation or other water.
Headlamps can develop bounce, again due to ware of the linking arm but simple to fix.
Is it used everyday or occasionally
Mix of both, These days its for pleasure only but still rack up miles.
What is it like to live with
Fantastic, It never fails to bring a smile to my face and even now I still like to look at it and think ' I own that'. Also its surprisingly reliable (despite the rep) and only let me down once. Can be interesting to drive in the wet and you need to respect the turbo.
Best things about it
Its hard to name anything specific but I guess it would have to be the way you can cover ground and increasingly the community that surrounds it, oh and the popups.
Worst things about it
It can attract the wrong kind of attention with other drivers wanting to race you but I guess thats true of any Super car.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
Generally very positive apart from above. Its always pleasing to see the look on some lads face as you drive by, I remember being there.
>> Edited by unity1 on Monday 26th April 16:07
How long have you wanted an Esprit
For about 23 or so years prior to purchase. F1 history pointed me toward Lotus. Bond pointed me toward the Esprit.
Did you buy new or used
Used with only 4000 on the clock
Which one was/is it
1998 Esprit V8 (US Model)
How long have you had it
3 Years
Any problems
Cam seals needed replacing. Faults associated with the alarm and the passenger window. Also had the standard airbag light problem (dirty connectors) and the weld fail on the muffler.
Common faults
Common faults in the US are the weld failure on the muffler and the alternator failing (normally from lack of driving/powering the battery and the addition of multi billion megawatt sound systems in the US)
Is it used everyday or occasionally
At least once per week
What is it like to live with
Incredibly easy for an exotic/supercar. General maintenance is not that expensive.
Best things about it
The driver/car symbiotic relationship. You and the car become one. If that doesn't happen to you, then you are in the wrong car.
Worst things about it
The odd rattle here and there. Having to get stonechips taken care of about once every 6 months.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc"Deer in the Headlights looks". Prepping for a recent car show, I had a twentish girl exhort "I just love that car, what kind of ride does it have?" (right in front of my wife who laughed histerically when the girl noticed her and said "ohh, sorry").
ErnestM
For about 23 or so years prior to purchase. F1 history pointed me toward Lotus. Bond pointed me toward the Esprit.
Did you buy new or used
Used with only 4000 on the clock
Which one was/is it
1998 Esprit V8 (US Model)
How long have you had it
3 Years
Any problems
Cam seals needed replacing. Faults associated with the alarm and the passenger window. Also had the standard airbag light problem (dirty connectors) and the weld fail on the muffler.
Common faults
Common faults in the US are the weld failure on the muffler and the alternator failing (normally from lack of driving/powering the battery and the addition of multi billion megawatt sound systems in the US)
Is it used everyday or occasionally
At least once per week
What is it like to live with
Incredibly easy for an exotic/supercar. General maintenance is not that expensive.
Best things about it
The driver/car symbiotic relationship. You and the car become one. If that doesn't happen to you, then you are in the wrong car.
Worst things about it
The odd rattle here and there. Having to get stonechips taken care of about once every 6 months.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc"Deer in the Headlights looks". Prepping for a recent car show, I had a twentish girl exhort "I just love that car, what kind of ride does it have?" (right in front of my wife who laughed histerically when the girl noticed her and said "ohh, sorry").
ErnestM
How long have you wanted an Esprit
Close to 15 years. I was never a big Bond fan but I had plenty of car magazine subscriptions to fuel my desire. It became an obsession a dream. I always said I would one day own a Lotus.
Did you buy new or used
I bought used.
Which one was/is it
A silver 1994 S4
How long have you had it
Just over 1 year
Any problems
Nothing more than maintenance items. Rear brakes and axle seals needed replacing. Otherwise she has been very reliable.
Common faults
None that I can think of. The common faults most people bring up or complain about are normal wear and tear items on normal cars. If it isn't, it is a normal wear and tear item on a sports car/modified car and I have been modifying cars for 8 years so it is commonplace for me.
Is it used everyday or occasionally
If it is nice out, I drive it. I try not to drive it in the rain/wet and do not drive in th snow but if it happens to rain while I am out, so be it. usually ends up being driven ~4 days a week.
What is it like to live with
A dream come true. Everytime that garage opens, I am still in awe and I still sometimes go out to look at it in disbelief. It has been reliable for me and a blast to drive and to own. It also seems to take longer to get places when I drive it. If I am not taking the scenic route, I am stopped by people who want to ask about it, take pictures of it, etc.
Best things about it
It literally is a dream come true. It is a wonderful car, I love the popups, the handling, the acceleration, and the looks. Even working on it is fun, especially when it calls for the use of a hammer. I sit there thinking, "I am banging on an Esprit with a hammer!". I makes me laugh, it just doesn't seem right.
Worst things about it
My girlfriend likes it too so she is always asking to drive it. I don't mind but if she is driving it, that means I am not.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
Jaw dropping from most strangers. Kids scream "Cool car!" or give a thumbs up. Family loves it and loves to bring it up that I have a Lotus if car talk comes up. Friends always want to race me. A lot of people like to ask about it or talk about it. I have yet to meet or talk to anyone that was negative regarding it. I really enjoy the look on their faces when I tell them to have a seat in it. They just seem amazed I would let them enjoy it too.
Rich
>> Edited by NJGSX96 on Monday 26th April 17:57
Close to 15 years. I was never a big Bond fan but I had plenty of car magazine subscriptions to fuel my desire. It became an obsession a dream. I always said I would one day own a Lotus.
Did you buy new or used
I bought used.
Which one was/is it
A silver 1994 S4
How long have you had it
Just over 1 year
Any problems
Nothing more than maintenance items. Rear brakes and axle seals needed replacing. Otherwise she has been very reliable.
Common faults
None that I can think of. The common faults most people bring up or complain about are normal wear and tear items on normal cars. If it isn't, it is a normal wear and tear item on a sports car/modified car and I have been modifying cars for 8 years so it is commonplace for me.
Is it used everyday or occasionally
If it is nice out, I drive it. I try not to drive it in the rain/wet and do not drive in th snow but if it happens to rain while I am out, so be it. usually ends up being driven ~4 days a week.
What is it like to live with
A dream come true. Everytime that garage opens, I am still in awe and I still sometimes go out to look at it in disbelief. It has been reliable for me and a blast to drive and to own. It also seems to take longer to get places when I drive it. If I am not taking the scenic route, I am stopped by people who want to ask about it, take pictures of it, etc.
Best things about it
It literally is a dream come true. It is a wonderful car, I love the popups, the handling, the acceleration, and the looks. Even working on it is fun, especially when it calls for the use of a hammer. I sit there thinking, "I am banging on an Esprit with a hammer!". I makes me laugh, it just doesn't seem right.
Worst things about it
My girlfriend likes it too so she is always asking to drive it. I don't mind but if she is driving it, that means I am not.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
Jaw dropping from most strangers. Kids scream "Cool car!" or give a thumbs up. Family loves it and loves to bring it up that I have a Lotus if car talk comes up. Friends always want to race me. A lot of people like to ask about it or talk about it. I have yet to meet or talk to anyone that was negative regarding it. I really enjoy the look on their faces when I tell them to have a seat in it. They just seem amazed I would let them enjoy it too.
Rich
>> Edited by NJGSX96 on Monday 26th April 17:57
How long have you wanted an Esprit:
27 years; saw prototype in Top Trumps aged 6, production car in a motorshow guide aged 8, in James Bond aged 9, finally touched one in a car park aged 11; had to have one one day.
Did you buy new or used:
you are joking! Used; shouldn't really be able to afford it with 3 kids; re-mortgaged my house to buy it last year.
Which one was/is it:
1998 GT3 in super-subtle orange metallic, as 70s as a pair of tartan turn-ups. Wanted an S1 like Bond but they are all basket cases now, GT3 as near as you can get as it is "pure" in concept and execution like the original.
How long have you had it:
12 months nearly, will be a very cold day before I sell it, although John Roberts blue V8 would tempt me if I could afford it (unlikely)
Any problems:
Not really, brakes a bit jiggly, a few rattles, but then I am very picky.
Common faults:
You'll have to ask people who have owned over a big mileage - Adrian Mugridge and Rob Ellis have used theirs as everyday cars for years.
Is it used everyday or occassionally:
Sadly only occasionally
What is it like to live with:
Could be used everyday quite easily if you were rich enough.
Best things about it.
Looks, no rust, history, childhood dream come true (how many others??)
Worst things about it:
demanding to drive well, turbo lag, stiff clutch (my achilles terndon may snap soon, no kidding, and my knees ache from the throttle angle)
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc:
Haven't told anyone at work, as I would never get another pay rise, friends all want their own mid-life crisis chariots now (one bought a "Magnum" 308 Ferrari). Must admit to being surprisingly coy about it, don't tend to leave it outside the house for long in case of nosy neighbours/pleb kids etc
The younger the onlooker the more positive the reaction. Who knows how many seeds we may be planting in little boy's heads!
Cheers
Mark
>> Edited by britten_mark on Monday 26th April 21:24
27 years; saw prototype in Top Trumps aged 6, production car in a motorshow guide aged 8, in James Bond aged 9, finally touched one in a car park aged 11; had to have one one day.
Did you buy new or used:
you are joking! Used; shouldn't really be able to afford it with 3 kids; re-mortgaged my house to buy it last year.
Which one was/is it:
1998 GT3 in super-subtle orange metallic, as 70s as a pair of tartan turn-ups. Wanted an S1 like Bond but they are all basket cases now, GT3 as near as you can get as it is "pure" in concept and execution like the original.
How long have you had it:
12 months nearly, will be a very cold day before I sell it, although John Roberts blue V8 would tempt me if I could afford it (unlikely)
Any problems:
Not really, brakes a bit jiggly, a few rattles, but then I am very picky.
Common faults:
You'll have to ask people who have owned over a big mileage - Adrian Mugridge and Rob Ellis have used theirs as everyday cars for years.
Is it used everyday or occassionally:
Sadly only occasionally
What is it like to live with:
Could be used everyday quite easily if you were rich enough.
Best things about it.
Looks, no rust, history, childhood dream come true (how many others??)
Worst things about it:
demanding to drive well, turbo lag, stiff clutch (my achilles terndon may snap soon, no kidding, and my knees ache from the throttle angle)
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc:
Haven't told anyone at work, as I would never get another pay rise, friends all want their own mid-life crisis chariots now (one bought a "Magnum" 308 Ferrari). Must admit to being surprisingly coy about it, don't tend to leave it outside the house for long in case of nosy neighbours/pleb kids etc
The younger the onlooker the more positive the reaction. Who knows how many seeds we may be planting in little boy's heads!
Cheers
Mark
>> Edited by britten_mark on Monday 26th April 21:24
1. How long have you wanted an Esprit:
Over ten years
2. Did you buy new or used
Used with low miles
3. Which one was/is it
2002 25th anniversary Esprit V8
4. How long have you had it
Less than a week
5. Any problems
None
6. Common faults
Can not powershift from 1st to 2nd gear. Tranny was not designed for this.
7. Is it used everyday or occassionally
I drive it everyday.
8. What is it like to live with
Most surreal feeling of automobile ownership
9. Best things about it
Exclusive to limited "lucky" owners
10.Worst things about it
Bad reputation in general public
11.What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
OHHH MMMYYY GODDDDD...
Over ten years
2. Did you buy new or used
Used with low miles
3. Which one was/is it
2002 25th anniversary Esprit V8
4. How long have you had it
Less than a week
5. Any problems
None
6. Common faults
Can not powershift from 1st to 2nd gear. Tranny was not designed for this.
7. Is it used everyday or occassionally
I drive it everyday.
8. What is it like to live with
Most surreal feeling of automobile ownership
9. Best things about it
Exclusive to limited "lucky" owners
10.Worst things about it
Bad reputation in general public
11.What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
OHHH MMMYYY GODDDDD...
Okay, here goes:
How long have you wanted an Esprit:
- Since they came out, before that I wanted a late model Europa twink 5-sp.
Did you buy new or used
- Fortunately new (so I thought).
Which one was/is it
- 2000 MY V8 (USA).
How long have you had it
- Since October 2001.
Any problems
- Yup, plenty. Multiple exhaust systems, multiple A/C problems, bad clutch, gearbox, radiator, fans, suspension bushings, etc.
Common faults
- Mostly poor quality parts sourced from other vendors, exhaust comes to mind along with others.
Is it used everyday or occassionally
- Depends... use it lots. Over 33K miles since delivery. It's maintained far beyond Lotus spec.
What is it like to live with
- A female, just more expensive and finicky.
Best things about it
- It's a Lotus... performance, handling, feedback, etc. Overall driving experience is superb.
Worst things about it
- It's a Lotus... (Lots Of Trouble, Usually serious). It just suffers from poor quality parts sourced from other companies and does have some questionable workmanship from the factory.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
- Varies a lot. In most cases, very little as South Florida is a jaded place for cars. There are the common stares, thumbs-up and the occassional quick stop-light conversation. In many cases, younger drivers want to race you or at least pass you, burn their tires next to you or other dumb stuff.
Regards, KM
2000 V8
How long have you wanted an Esprit:
- Since they came out, before that I wanted a late model Europa twink 5-sp.
Did you buy new or used
- Fortunately new (so I thought).
Which one was/is it
- 2000 MY V8 (USA).
How long have you had it
- Since October 2001.
Any problems
- Yup, plenty. Multiple exhaust systems, multiple A/C problems, bad clutch, gearbox, radiator, fans, suspension bushings, etc.
Common faults
- Mostly poor quality parts sourced from other vendors, exhaust comes to mind along with others.
Is it used everyday or occassionally
- Depends... use it lots. Over 33K miles since delivery. It's maintained far beyond Lotus spec.
What is it like to live with
- A female, just more expensive and finicky.
Best things about it
- It's a Lotus... performance, handling, feedback, etc. Overall driving experience is superb.
Worst things about it
- It's a Lotus... (Lots Of Trouble, Usually serious). It just suffers from poor quality parts sourced from other companies and does have some questionable workmanship from the factory.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
- Varies a lot. In most cases, very little as South Florida is a jaded place for cars. There are the common stares, thumbs-up and the occassional quick stop-light conversation. In many cases, younger drivers want to race you or at least pass you, burn their tires next to you or other dumb stuff.
Regards, KM
2000 V8
How long have you wanted an Esprit
Uh, since about 1977 or so.
Did you buy new or used
Used.
Which one was/is it
1989 Esprit Turbo Non-SE
How long have you had it
About 1 year
Any problems
"If it has tits or wheels, it will give you trouble."
Speedo, window motors, fuel pump, reverse lockout mechanism, aftermarket English alarm.
Common faults
Speedo, window motors, fuel pump, reverse lockout mechanism.
Is it used everyday or occassionally
Drive to work (220 kilometers round trip) about 1x week
What is it like to live with
Like a woman.
Best things about it
Most beautiful car in the world.
Worst things about it
English engineering remnants.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
"Wow."
Uh, since about 1977 or so.
Did you buy new or used
Used.
Which one was/is it
1989 Esprit Turbo Non-SE
How long have you had it
About 1 year
Any problems
"If it has tits or wheels, it will give you trouble."
Speedo, window motors, fuel pump, reverse lockout mechanism, aftermarket English alarm.
Common faults
Speedo, window motors, fuel pump, reverse lockout mechanism.
Is it used everyday or occassionally
Drive to work (220 kilometers round trip) about 1x week
What is it like to live with
Like a woman.
Best things about it
Most beautiful car in the world.
Worst things about it
English engineering remnants.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
"Wow."
How long have you wanted an Esprit?
About 15 yrs, seen one in the shop when it was new and promised myself that if I work hard enough I will have that very same colour and model esprit.
Did you buy new or used?
Used.
Which one was/is it?
Was the one I dribbled over 15yrs ago, a Black 1989 Turbo.
How long have you had it?
A year and a half.
Any problems?
Both window motors died, electrical short, light switches renewed, just little things.
Common faults?
The window motors, relays, sad cow horn.
Is it used everyday or occassionally?
Its used mainly on the weekends.
What is it like to live with?
Its amazing, makes me feel good everytime I see it, I never get bored with its looks. Its a real super car!!
Best things about it?
Its styling never seems to date, massive history, classy interior, supercar handling.
Worst things about it?
Going over speed humps, not that easy to get into a small park, brakes not that good.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc?
Holy cow its a girl driving that!!!...WTF WOW
thats a Lotus. How long have you wanted an Esprit
Several Years. Had a sucession of Sporty type cars including 911s, wanted to try the real English Sports car.
Did you buy new or used
Used
Which one was/is it
1995 GT3 initially
2000 V8SE now
How long have you had it
GT3 18 months
V8 9 Months
Any problems
Normal wear & tear with GT3 - i.e. nothing much
V8 - managed to break the Grearbox :-) my own heavy footed fault (although a real GB on the car would be nice) have learnt to be more careful. Had a recon. one fitted which seems fine.
Replaced the Cats.
Common faults
Only thing annoying me at the moment is the rattle - posted about it previous and am told its very common - caused by the fixing of the body work to the chassis.
Is it used everyday or occassionally
Every day - driven to and from the station and wherever else I need to go. Basically any excuse to drive it.
What is it like to live with
Its fine - used as an everyday car - parked in car parks. A shame to see it so grubby - but my view on cars is that I have it to drive it so it gets driven and used.
Best things about it
Handling is out of this world. Have had a number of fast cars including two 911s (993 and 996). The handling on the Esprit blows both of them away. Straight line performance on V8 also blistering.
Looks fantastic.
Great community.
Worst things about it
Gearbox !! but then im biased :-)
Occasionally attracts some unwanted attention from roadracer types or the boys in blue.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
Everyone loves it - and its fun to take them for a spin and terrorise them.
Lots of people turn and look - and its rare to see another one.
Overall I love the car - sold my previous GT3 to a friend who also enjoys it. (Since he lives just down the road some pre-breakfast trips to nowhere at great speed have been known).
Kev.
Several Years. Had a sucession of Sporty type cars including 911s, wanted to try the real English Sports car.
Did you buy new or used
Used
Which one was/is it
1995 GT3 initially
2000 V8SE now
How long have you had it
GT3 18 months
V8 9 Months
Any problems
Normal wear & tear with GT3 - i.e. nothing much
V8 - managed to break the Grearbox :-) my own heavy footed fault (although a real GB on the car would be nice) have learnt to be more careful. Had a recon. one fitted which seems fine.
Replaced the Cats.
Common faults
Only thing annoying me at the moment is the rattle - posted about it previous and am told its very common - caused by the fixing of the body work to the chassis.
Is it used everyday or occassionally
Every day - driven to and from the station and wherever else I need to go. Basically any excuse to drive it.
What is it like to live with
Its fine - used as an everyday car - parked in car parks. A shame to see it so grubby - but my view on cars is that I have it to drive it so it gets driven and used.
Best things about it
Handling is out of this world. Have had a number of fast cars including two 911s (993 and 996). The handling on the Esprit blows both of them away. Straight line performance on V8 also blistering.
Looks fantastic.
Great community.
Worst things about it
Gearbox !! but then im biased :-)
Occasionally attracts some unwanted attention from roadracer types or the boys in blue.
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
Everyone loves it - and its fun to take them for a spin and terrorise them.
Lots of people turn and look - and its rare to see another one.
Overall I love the car - sold my previous GT3 to a friend who also enjoys it. (Since he lives just down the road some pre-breakfast trips to nowhere at great speed have been known).
Kev.
How long have you wanted an Esprit ?
Since watching James Bond, then visited the factory and first serious look was in 1986
Did you buy new or used ?
Used in 1990
Which one was/is it ?
Esprit SE 1990
Esprit S4 2001
Esprit S4 2004
How long have you had it ?
5 Days
Any problems ?
No major problem with any apart from a siezed waste gate on the SE as I left the car standing for a number of weeks
Is it used everyday or occasionally ?
Intention at least 3/5 days per week during summer
What is it like to live with ?
The older I get the harder it is to get out, but apart from that very easy to drive
Best things about it ?
Chassis, road holding, power delivery and though a +25 odd year shape still turns heads, a classic design from day 1, British
Worst things about it ?
Rattles a bit, get very hot inside on sunny days
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc ?
Family love it, friends love it, Kids love it and shout Cool car.
Some people seem to take offence that you work hard and buy a lotus with reactions such as shouting abuse to dangerous driving to get past you.
Summary
I just love them, no major problems with any of them a joy to drive regardless of the odd idiot, life is too short to worry about such things at the end of the day I have my Lotus
Best regards
Since watching James Bond, then visited the factory and first serious look was in 1986
Did you buy new or used ?
Used in 1990
Which one was/is it ?
Esprit SE 1990
Esprit S4 2001
Esprit S4 2004
How long have you had it ?
5 Days
Any problems ?
No major problem with any apart from a siezed waste gate on the SE as I left the car standing for a number of weeks
Is it used everyday or occasionally ?
Intention at least 3/5 days per week during summer
What is it like to live with ?
The older I get the harder it is to get out, but apart from that very easy to drive
Best things about it ?
Chassis, road holding, power delivery and though a +25 odd year shape still turns heads, a classic design from day 1, British
Worst things about it ?
Rattles a bit, get very hot inside on sunny days
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc ?
Family love it, friends love it, Kids love it and shout Cool car.
Some people seem to take offence that you work hard and buy a lotus with reactions such as shouting abuse to dangerous driving to get past you.
Summary
I just love them, no major problems with any of them a joy to drive regardless of the odd idiot, life is too short to worry about such things at the end of the day I have my Lotus
Best regards
Well done Shahzad,
What a great thread. Fascinating stuff. Don't own an Esprit (yet), 'just' an elise.
I don't think there is any other make of car in which the driver/machine relationship is consistently such a symbiotic one. That is, IMO, the true essence of Lotus.
Regards, Neil
Keep posting Esprit owners, anyone out there got an S1? They are georgeous
What a great thread. Fascinating stuff. Don't own an Esprit (yet), 'just' an elise.
I don't think there is any other make of car in which the driver/machine relationship is consistently such a symbiotic one. That is, IMO, the true essence of Lotus.
Regards, Neil
Keep posting Esprit owners, anyone out there got an S1? They are georgeous
How long have you wanted an Esprit
from the year dot. the first lotus to catch my eye was the old elan but as soon as Roger Moore took Barbara Bach out for a spin I was smitten
Did you buy new or used
I bought used.
Which one was/is it
A red 1994 S4
How long have you had it
4 years in August
Any problems
a few. 2nd gear synchro broke, my bad driving perhaps. exhaust manifold and turbo replaced due to piece of manifold or bolt going down the pipe and blowing the turbo. flickery lights due to switch being lubed with a gallon of grease, easy fix.
Common faults
exhaust back pressure valve rusting shut. turbo valve seizing producing endless boost, great fun until the ecu cuts fuel and ignition. chargecooler pump vanes falling apart. leaky cam tower gasket and drive shaft seals. wobbly headlights
Is it used everyday or occasionally
daily drive and as such is reliable just care needed in the wet
What is it like to live with
easy. bigger boot than expected, mileage ok, starts every time and runs well. service and insurance costs not astronomical
Best things about it
speed, handling, draws attention, looks, the list goes on and on
Worst things about it
doesn't like being left and not driven. engaging 2nd from 1st or 3rd. peddles are too close for size 12 feet
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
friends like it but constantly ask when I'm selling it to expand the family
relatives understand I'm stubborn and do as I please regardless.
people on the street are always pleasant and complimentary, 'nice car' and thumbs up stuff all the time. kids gawp and crash their bikes, young mums with prams try very hard not to look but never manage it...
How long have you wanted an Esprit
20 years. And it wasn't Bond that did it: it was the computer game "Test Drive." Test Drive was one of the first driving simulators and let you pilot a gorgeous blue Turbo Esprit on twisty mountain roads. The latest version of Test Drive (for PS2) still has an Esprit -- the V8.
Did you buy new or used
Used.
Which one was/is it
Silver Frost 1993 SE (4-cyl single turbo chargecooled)
How long have you had it
Signed for it on my birthday last year, September 17th. My best present to myself ever.
Any problems
Steering rack bad. Replacement steering rack also bad. Brake accumulator. Reverse switch. Exhaust leak. Of course, the fuel vapor hose.
Common faults
None in my car.
Is it used everyday or occasionally
Daily driver.
What is it like to live with
She's a little moody when it's cold and when she first starts up. The air conditioning and heating systems are only "okay," which can definitely present issues for livability. The stock brakes are annoying and need serious upgrading to have excellent stopping power.
Best things about it
When the turbo kicks in. Looks: I've always thought these cars were stunning; they age gracefully and will still look gorgeous and cutting edge decades from now.
Worst things about it
Stock brakes (see above).
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
It gets a reaction as good (bad) as or better (worse) than any other supercar. That means constant conversations at any gas fill, people pulling up beside you on the highway and riding alongside to look at the car as long as possible, people begging for rides or solo drives, and everyone hoping they can prove they're faster than you.
20 years. And it wasn't Bond that did it: it was the computer game "Test Drive." Test Drive was one of the first driving simulators and let you pilot a gorgeous blue Turbo Esprit on twisty mountain roads. The latest version of Test Drive (for PS2) still has an Esprit -- the V8.
Did you buy new or used
Used.
Which one was/is it
Silver Frost 1993 SE (4-cyl single turbo chargecooled)
How long have you had it
Signed for it on my birthday last year, September 17th. My best present to myself ever.
Any problems
Steering rack bad. Replacement steering rack also bad. Brake accumulator. Reverse switch. Exhaust leak. Of course, the fuel vapor hose.
Common faults
None in my car.
Is it used everyday or occasionally
Daily driver.
What is it like to live with
She's a little moody when it's cold and when she first starts up. The air conditioning and heating systems are only "okay," which can definitely present issues for livability. The stock brakes are annoying and need serious upgrading to have excellent stopping power.
Best things about it
When the turbo kicks in. Looks: I've always thought these cars were stunning; they age gracefully and will still look gorgeous and cutting edge decades from now.
Worst things about it
Stock brakes (see above).
What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
It gets a reaction as good (bad) as or better (worse) than any other supercar. That means constant conversations at any gas fill, people pulling up beside you on the highway and riding alongside to look at the car as long as possible, people begging for rides or solo drives, and everyone hoping they can prove they're faster than you.
1/ How long have you wanted an Esprit
Since I was 12 (1987). Lotus let me sit in the show car that was on the stand at the East of England show. I promised myself that I would get one "when I grow up"!
2/ Did you buy new or used
Used
3/ Which one was/is it
89 Turbo SE
95 S4s
4/ How long have you had it
4 years
5/ Any problems
A couple, mostly irritating niggles rather than show stoppers (false check engine lights etc.)
6/ Common faults
Check out Karl Franz's www.espritfactfile.com. I think I have had everything listed at some point or other.
7/ Is it used everyday or occasionally
Has been used everyday in the past, now only at weekends.
8/ What is it like to live with
Clearly it is not as easy as an Astra, however it is a damn sight more fun!
9/ Best things about it
Performance, rarity, classic wedge.
10/ Worst things about it
Attracts Max Power racers like flies to the proverbial.
11/ What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
Most people look and stare as you go past (which is a litle disconcerting at first). Other than that it is generally positive - there is usually some discussion with someone at the petrol pump about how quick it is, experiences etc. A real ice breaker!
Since I was 12 (1987). Lotus let me sit in the show car that was on the stand at the East of England show. I promised myself that I would get one "when I grow up"!
2/ Did you buy new or used
Used
3/ Which one was/is it
89 Turbo SE
95 S4s
4/ How long have you had it
4 years
5/ Any problems
A couple, mostly irritating niggles rather than show stoppers (false check engine lights etc.)
6/ Common faults
Check out Karl Franz's www.espritfactfile.com. I think I have had everything listed at some point or other.
7/ Is it used everyday or occasionally
Has been used everyday in the past, now only at weekends.
8/ What is it like to live with
Clearly it is not as easy as an Astra, however it is a damn sight more fun!
9/ Best things about it
Performance, rarity, classic wedge.
10/ Worst things about it
Attracts Max Power racers like flies to the proverbial.
11/ What kind of reaction does it get, from friends, relatives, on the street etc
Most people look and stare as you go past (which is a litle disconcerting at first). Other than that it is generally positive - there is usually some discussion with someone at the petrol pump about how quick it is, experiences etc. A real ice breaker!
Gassing Station | Esprit | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff