New Love...

[lotusguy]

Hi All,

Well after 8+ years of Bliss with my Esprit, my heart has been stolen by another, a saucy number who will drop her top at will.... Due to a number of issues, not the least being storage space, I have decided to test the waters, share the Love, and possibly pass my Esprit on to another.

This car is a 1985 M.Y.(1 of 61) Turbo Esprit, Black/Magnolia. It has 47,000 original miles. I have virtually restored the entire car. Restoration less than 7k mi. ago includes engine, transmission, cooling, fuel, electrical, suspension systems as well as numerous cosmetic improvements. All work was done using genuine Lotus Parts from either LCU, JAE or SJSportscars. All documentation of all work ever done to the car is available along with Service Notes and Parts List and original Owner's Manual. Also included will be many spares including a next to new set of rare tail lights and a new reverse light switch (unobtainium).

Engine: Entire engine was rebuilt. This includes: Balancing/polishing crankshaft, new main bearings, new big-end bearings, new ceramic coated, forged JE pistons in rehoned liners, rebuilt oil pump, head milled 0.20", three angle valve grind, new bronze/silica valve guides, new 0.500" valve springs, new 104 intake cam, new hardened steel tappets, Euro Cam Pulley swap, rebuilt Timing Belt Semi-Automatic Tensioner, re-surfaced and balanced flywheel, recurved distributor, all new 'V' belts, all new vacuum hoses, all new seals, gaskets, 'O' rings, new vacuum pump, rebuilt and recalibrated wastegate, rebuilt and ceramic coated Garrett/Airesearch T3 turbo, ceramic coated exhaust header, all reciprocating gear dynamically zero-balanced, new Magnecor 8mm Racing High Tension leads, new engine mounts, new throttle cable, rebuilt Engine Bay cooling fan and replaced temp sensor. After 7,000 miles since the rebuild, car registers 150PSI exactly on each cylinder.

Fuel System: Rebuilt and rejetted Dellorto DHLA 45M carbs, including all new seals, new floats, new needle valves and seats, new accelerator pump diaphrams (these parts are extra to a standard rebuild) new carb isolation mounts, new, later style intake trunking, new fuel filter.

Transmission: All new seals and 'O' rings, all new synchro rings (1st to 5th), new main roller bearing, new throwout bearing, new pressure plate, new pilot/spigot bearing, new AP clutch plate, rebuilt clutch master cylinder, SS Aeroquip clutch line upgrade, new slave cylinder, new crossgate cable, new translator bushings, new transmission mounts.

Cooling System Rebuilt waterpump, new temperature sending unit, new 'T' stat, all new rubber hoses, Re-cored radiator.

Brakes Rebuilt Master cylinder, SS aeroquip brake lines, all calipers rebuilt and powdercoated, EBC competition brake pads, new parking brake cables.

Suspension New Radius Arm Mounts, New Upper Ball Joints, Custom made adjustable rear links, all shocks in good shape, no leaks, no spring sag.

Electrical: Rebuilt alternator, all new fuses and relays, all new bulbs, new voltage stabilizer, new wiper/washer switch, added relays to power window circuits, all windows operate smoothly and smartly, original power mirrors converted to motor driven using stock miror shells, indistinguishable from original solenoid activated ones, but much more adjustable, new Sears DieHard Gold Battery.

Interior All new stereo speakers, including Alpine component. 100W Rockford Fosgate Amp, new V8 seats (original seats available, but one will require recovering), Halon Fire Extinguisher. All instrument gauges/switches/lights work properly.

Exterior Glistening, all original paint w/ two minor spider cracks (invisible unless pointed out), powder coated two-tone original BBS wheels, New windscreen w/ all bright finish surrounds, optional secondary weatherseals on doors, new Dunlop SP Sport 8000 tires 205/50ZR Fr, 245/50ZR rear.

Known Issues Catalytic converter needs replacing/gutting, 1 tooth missing from passenger side power headlight unit, works fine, just 1 sec. behind the left. Normal stone chipping on front air dam - should be repainted, but is very acceptable as it is. AC works perfectly, but requires recharging approx. every third year indicating leaking 'O' rings, If I decide to keep the car, I will address this this coming spring.

This car needs next to nothing. It was the First Place Winner in the Lotus Owners Gathering Concours in Sept. 2002 (LOG 22) and twice First Place Winner in the 2003 Stone Arch Festival/ Art of Classic Cars Show. Due to engine upgrades, car runs at 10PSI boost(0.69 BAR) vs Stock 7.5 PSI (0.51 BAR), compression ratio was raised from stock 7.5:1 to 8.5:1, no detonation problems whatsoever.

While many have so stated, I will not claim this is absolutely the nicest 'G' car around, but as Calvin will attest, it is certainly one of them. I have no fixed price in mind, but I won't be giving it away because the car simply commands the upper range of the market. Anyone interested may contact me by email and make an offer. I have not definitely decided to sell, but the right offer may be accepted. Thanks for reading. Happy Motoring!... Jim'85TE













>>> Edited by lotusguy on Tuesday 2nd March 23:33

[paul c]

Does this mean we lose your valuable knowledge too?

Hope not

What you getting instead (if you go ahead)?

[cnh1990]

Jim's 85 G car was awarded the #1 turbo G car at the 2002 North American Lotus Owners Gathering informal concours held in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

This car was judged by other Lotus owners at this National gathering.

I know this car personally.

What are you getting? I have ben toying with the idea of selling my SE also as spring nears to upgrade.

Calvin

[lotusguy]

paul c said:

Does this mean we lose your valuable knowledge too? Hope not What you getting instead (if you go ahead)?

Paul.

Not at all. I still plan on staying with my local club the LOONs (Lotus Owners Oftha North) and on the various lists. And, I plan on assisting people with their mechanical needs whether in person, working on another's car, or by offering any advise/knowledge I can through the lists.

Fact is, as I look ahead, I see my driving changing from the current, more agressive style to one of more touring. The Esprit wasn't made for this and I think it's a shame to not drive them as intended; better to let another step up and enjoy the car in this manner.

The car I am itching to get my hands on is a 1958-'63 Mercedes Benz 190SL Roadster, Navy Blue w/ Tan leather interior and Tan soft top. I have been dying for a drop top since I let my MGB go some 20+ years ago. These are fantastic cars albeit in a totally different league than the Esprit. They are not cheap, we're talking S4s/V8 money. By comparison, they are heavy and slow, but they have stood the test of time and are true classics and a great ride.

My wife (Lotusgirl) and I live Condo-style, meaning there is no room for multiple fun cars. I am working on some business deals, which if they go as expected, I will be able to keep several cars. My long term plan is to have a Bull or a Horse resting beside the 'Strudel Eater' within the next two years. As they say, the only true constant in the Universe is change. I'll miss the Esprit, but it will still always be with me. Happy Motoring!... Jim'85TE

[wedg1e]

Hey Jim, my father used to own a 1959 Merc 300D pillarless limousine (the 'Adenauer') - surely the last era when Mercedes built truly handsome cars...

Ian

[ErnestM]

Jim - don't forget to us the free PH adverts as well. They are free and reach a very wide audience.

www.pistonheads.com/sales/submit.asp


ErnestM

PS: also - as has been said - please don't dessert this forum...

[madmike]

Jim,

I truly do regret to inform you of this, but I simply won't allow it. You are too dedicated an Esprit owner to be allowed to leave the fold. Again, I regret it has to come to this, but the decision is final. You must keep your car.

Mike

[njcpa]

Can you post pictures somewhere? Any idea on pricing?

[autocross7]

Hey Jim be careful with the merc... they are great fun, but not an Espit!!! AND it "don't even come close" (distant light years) to Miatas for drivin' fun! One of my best friends (Don Smith in Tampa) had one of those "mercs". We had great fun in it until... the motor rebuild. Apparently there were several different piston sizes - not a problem until your parts sourse sends you the incorrect part 9 or 10 times!!! over 15 weeks +/-. They are pretty cars though and I do like them. I hope you really enjoy it AND can get a reliable parts source!


Drive topless!!!
Cameron

[kylie]

All I can say is nooooooo Jim don't do it! If you sell it you will always be itching to buy another, who cares if your driving has changed or even if you never really drive it, it is a trophy in itself, you know that. We need you and I think you need us in a funny kinda way. You can't sell it, not if your buying another. The later model cars sound like they could be more suited to your style. They are much like an everyday car. So please just have a wee think about it.

Well what ever you do am sure it will be a calculated one

Good luck
Kylie

>> Edited by kylie on Wednesday 3rd March 02:47

[lotusguy]

njcpa said:

Can you post pictures somewhere? Any idea on pricing?

Hi,

Here are some links to pics, as far as price, make me an offer I can't refuse... Happy Motoring!... Jim'85TE

http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000001.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000002.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000004.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000006.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000007.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000008.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000012.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000013.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000014.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000016.jpg
http://photos.fotango.com/p/eba00367181f00000018.jpg

[lotusguy]

wedg1e said:

Hey Jim, my father used to own a 1959 Merc 300D pillarless limousine (the 'Adenauer') - surely the last era when Mercedes built truly handsome cars... Ian

Ian,

Very Cool! I agree that the Ponton era cars for MB was their greatest achievement so far as road cars was concerned.

The Adenauer has become somewhat of a cult classic in it's own right. Happy Motoring!... Jim'85TE

[lotusguy]

autocross7 said:

Hey Jim be careful with the merc... they are great fun, but not an Espit!!! AND it "don't even come close" (distant light years) to Miatas for drivin' fun! One of my best friends (Don Smith in Tampa) had one of those "mercs". We had great fun in it until... the motor rebuild. Apparently there were several different piston sizes - not a problem until your parts sourse sends you the incorrect part 9 or 10 times!!! over 15 weeks +/-. They are pretty cars though and I do like them. I hope you really enjoy it AND can get a reliable parts source! Drive topless!!! Cameron

Cameron,

I am well aware of the quirks surrounding the W121 (MB internal designation for the 190SL). I have been researching this car for more than two years.

Besides three piston variants, there are also 3 valve guide variants and 3 camshaft bearing variants as well.

But, compared to other Roadsters of it's day, and even by today's standards, these cars are virtually bulletproof.

The car shares much of it components, including engine/tranny with the 180/190E saloons. The only known trouble spots are the twin Solex 44 PHH downdraft carburettors, which will be upgraded as there is a bolt-on Weber kit for them (although I'd like to go with Dellortos which are emminently more streetable due to their superior off-idle progression) and the T-50 Power Brake Boosters, which again, I would upgrade to a front disk brake system (Drums on all 4 corners is standard). Thanks for the info though, it's always good to learn all one can. Happy Motoring!... Jim'85TE

[autocross7]

They are fun cars and (only an opinion here!) one of the few pretty Mercs. I really do hope you enjoy it as much as Don liked his... he sold it a while back and after a "period of boring cars", he bought a 308GTS. He does admit to missing the Merc though.

If you end up knowing as much about that car as you do about Esprits... I know, you should write a book! I'd buy it!

Don's neighbor has recently driven Don to the true point of no return by parking his new toy "out front"... seems his neighbor bought a Porsche 917!

Lotus, Mazda, Mercedes, Ferrari, Porsche, and the many many others! They are all syptoms of the car disease. I love em'

Drive topless!!!
Cameron

[JK1]

Jim,

Say it ain't so....

I'm sorry but I have to chime in here. We've taken a vote and we are sorry but you are forbidden to sell the G car!

Being the patriotic all-American ex-flyboy that you are, I'm sure you would never go against the democratic process.

And since you are largely responsible for my Lotus addiction and the purchase of my S4s, this is just not acceptable.

Being the ingenious guy that you are, you can figure out a way to keep the Lotus and still buy the mmmmmmercedes if you must.

All jesting aside, if you do leave the fold, be sure that you, your knowledge and your willingness to help will be sorely missed.

Sincerely,
Jim Knowles

[f1karting]

Jim, very nice example. Do you have any shots of the interior? I have and 83ET, black on black, but honestly, I really like the black and tan, and may even change it over.

I truly hope your car goes to a good home.. it deserves it. You may however eventually regret selling it after a few years pass by. I made the mistake of selling a prized car of mine.. now I kick myself.

Hope you can still find time to share your knowledge with the group. Everyone appreciates it.

Best regards, Jan

[lotusguy]

f1karting said:

Jim, very nice example. Do you have any shots of the interior? I have and 83ET, black on black, but honestly, I really like the black and tan, and may even change it over. I truly hope your car goes to a good home.. it deserves it. You may however eventually regret selling it after a few years pass by. I made the mistake of selling a prized car of mine.. now I kick myself. Hope you can still find time to share your knowledge with the group. Everyone appreciates it. Best regards, Jan

Jan,

1972 Datsun 240Z, original owner, 20k mi. (sold in 2000), 1963 Jaguar E-Type Roadster, 16k mi. (sold in '90), 1973 Lotus Europa Twin Cam Special, 26k mi. (sold in 1983), 1968 Chevrolet Camaro RS/Z28 Convertible (1 of 15 made), 24k Mi. (sold in '89), 1970 Buick Gran Sport Stage I (all alloy 455CID/465 HP) 1 of 50 homologation cars produced, 14k mi. (sold in '93), 1972 MGB Roadster, original owner, 22k mi. (sold in '86), 1968 Lincoln Continental 28k mi. (sold in '92), are just a few of the cars I've let go over the years.

I miss them all, but they are all still with me as well, so really no regrets.

I got several offers for my Esprit from fellow listers, the highest being $11k. These offers are near insulting for a car this rare (1 of 61 produced) and in such pristine condition, so it looks like I'll be keeping it, at least for a while. This does disrupt my plans for the Baby Benz, as I said S4s/V8 money, but maybe next year.

So far as interior shots of my Esprit, I really don't have an adequate 'digi' camera to get any decent shots in this tight space, but the condition is equal to the rest of the car, that is to say virtually perfect, no cuts, tears, shrinkage, stains etc. To get an idea how it looks, check out some of the exterior shots where the color combo is clearly visible, especially the binnacle. Happy Motoring! ...Jim'85TE

[f1karting]

Jim.. youve had a nice stable of cars over the years. I tend to get too attached to my cars.. especially after slaving over a restoration. Im hard on myself when I let them go.

You are so right..$11K for your car is utter bullsh*t. The early cars are getting so rare, especially in NA. I searched for quite a while to find a decent car. The one I finally bought, I paid 16K without question, and it will likely need another 5-6k to freshen it up to show quality like yours. IMO Id hold out for at least 21K. To be honest, if I hadnt just bought mine, Id be over to have coffee with you this weekend to talk.

Lets see where this goes...

For Sale 1983 ET $16K ONO.

Regards Jan

[lotusguy]

f1karting said:

"Jim.. youve had a nice stable of cars over the years..." Regards Jan

Jan,

As the saying goes..."So many cars, so little time!" Happy Motoring! ...Jim'85TE

[princecharming]

I'm sorry, but your offer has been declined. Totally unacceptable. You have to have an Esprit. People depend on you. Once you're in, it's for life.

Please tell me that this is a late April Fool's joke.

Roy

P.S. The Mercedes is a gorgeous automobile.
Any possible way that you could store one
elsewhere so that you could keep both?
I keep one of my three cars at my parent's
house at all times.