In 2026, Lotus celebrates the 50th anniversary of one of its most iconic and recognisable models: the Lotus Esprit. First unveiled to the world in 1976, the Esprit marked a bold new direction for the British marque, combining striking design with Lotus’s long-standing philosophy of lightweight engineering and precise handling. Over five decades on, the Esprit remains a defining symbol of the brand’s ambition and innovation.
Photo via WhichCar/Unsplash-style archive
Penned by legendary Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Esprit’s sharp, wedge-shaped profile instantly set it apart from its contemporaries. Its dramatic looks were matched by a mid-engine layout and a focus on driver engagement, ensuring the car delivered not only visual impact but also exceptional road manners. Built on a steel backbone chassis with a composite body, the Esprit embodied Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s belief in efficiency through intelligent design.
Photo via Motor1.com
The original Esprit debuted with a four-cylinder engine, but the model evolved significantly over its long production life. Turbocharged variants arrived in the late 1970s, followed by continual refinements in performance, aerodynamics, and comfort. In the 1990s, the introduction of the Esprit V8 marked a major milestone, transforming the car into a true supercar contender while retaining its unmistakable character.
Beyond the road, the Esprit achieved global fame through popular culture, most notably with its appearance in James Bond films, where it became one of the most memorable cars ever associated with the franchise. These moments helped cement the Esprit’s status as a cultural icon, admired not just by enthusiasts but by a worldwide audience.
Photo via Car & Classic
As Lotus marks the Esprit’s 50th anniversary in 2026, the car’s legacy feels more relevant than ever. It stands as a testament to daring design, continuous evolution, and the pursuit of driving purity. For collectors and fans alike, the Lotus Esprit remains a timeless reminder of an era when innovation, style, and performance came together to create something truly special.
Although not a 1970s example, our advertising partner Autostorico currently has a 1983 Lotus Esprit Turbo available for sale. This ‘A-plate’ Esprit Turbo is finished in Red Calypso with a Vanilla White leather interior and has covered just 36,808 miles. The car was acquired by its current owner, a dedicated Lotus enthusiast, in January 2021 and represents a particularly well-presented example of the model.
1983 Lotus Esprit Turbo | £54,950.00
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