Esprit G Cars for Tall Drivers

[Mark 100]

Please can somebody offer some advice, I'm looking at getting my first Lotus Esprit. I'm interested in an S2 but I've been told that at 6ft 4 to forget a Lotus full stop, I've had a look at an S3 Turbo which I can fit into, admittedly its a little bit tight. The main place where I have problems is the bottom part of the dashboard below the steering wheel, where the dash curves down towards the gearbox tunnel and the air vent is. Are all the dashboards the same in the G cars as the pictures I've seen of S2's don't appear to have a vent at each side of the gearbox tunnel, are all the seats the same and is it possible to fit S3 Turbo seats (with the rear adjuster) into an S2.
I've read the article on this site about tall drivers, but I'm interested in hearing some real world experience from owners.

Many Thx

Mark

[PatHeald]

I'm just over 6'2.

I have an '87 HC Turbo, which has the large lift out glass roof.

I have problems fitting in the car unless the roof is out or at least propped open. I don't think I could drive one that didn't have the sunroof.

The main problem is shins against the lower dashboard.

You can reputably get an extra inch or two by removing the seat runners and bolting the seat directly to the floor.

I used to have a Seven, which I had to sell because I just couldn't drive the thing safely, such was the lack of room.

All Chapman era cars seem to be designed to frustrate taller people.

Cheers

Pat.

[yardelli]

As above - I've also got a Giugiaro HC Turbo - and am 6ft 2.......I guess I've made myself fit the Esprit which seems postively spacious after also owning 7 Fiat X1/9's!!! As stated the Giugiaro Turbo helps taller drivers by having the Glass roof (although I do not like them?) Agreed the main problem is your left kneee catches the lower left dash to the left and under the steering wheel during gear changes. However I've found lifting my knee up after changes allows you to slide down in the seat and remain quite comfortable. Perhaps a smaller diameter steering wheel might help? The only other uncomfortable sensation you may find is a rather cold left knee when the air-con is on!

[yardelli]

By the way they say a supercar is not a supercar unless you cannot fit in it!!! As long as it goes, sounds and looks the biz!

[turbo_hc]

It may sound a bit drastic - but worth it, I had three inches taken off both my Tibia and Fibia's. Slightly difficult to walk now - but definately worth it to drive the car!!!

Jimbo
87 HC Turbo

[mark_88_turbo]

Hi Mark,
I wanted an S2 as well. I found a gold one that looked fantastic, went to get in it and my 6ft 5 frame wouldn't fit in either. S3's were the same. I ended up getting an X180 newer shape Esprit, as there's alot more room inside. It's got a sunroof which makes the head room alot better and there's more foot space.
Good luck.

Mark
88 Turbo