Estimated Price: £80,000 - £100,000

Few manufacturer sponsorship partnerships in Formula 1 history captured the imagination quite like the association between Colin Chapman and the enigmatic David Thieme of the Essex Overseas Petroleum Corporation. Introduced in 1980, the Essex-backed Formula 1 programme marked a dramatic shift in the image and presentation of Grand Prix racing, bringing unprecedented glamour, lavish hospitality and bold visual identity to the sport during one of its most colourful eras.

The launch of the Essex-sponsored Lotus Formula 1 team in October 1980 raised the bar significantly in terms of sponsorship profile and presentation, with the striking blue, red and chrome Essex livery becoming one of the most recognisable and celebrated colour schemes in Formula 1 history. Campaigned by drivers including Elio de Angelis and Mario Andretti, the Essex Lotus cars remain icons of the period and continue to enjoy enormous popularity amongst Formula 1 enthusiasts today.

To commemorate the partnership, Lotus produced a limited run of Essex Commemorative Edition Esprits, widely regarded as some of the most visually dramatic and collectible road-going Esprits ever built. Offered here is chassis #17 of only 22 examples produced, a remarkably rare surviving example that still delivers the same sense of occasion and visual impact more than four decades after its introduction.

Presented in the unmistakable Essex blue, red and silver colour scheme, the car’s paintwork is described as superb and complements a striking all-red leather interior. Distinctive Essex features include the aircraft-inspired roof-mounted centre console housing the switchgear and original Panasonic stereo system, details that perfectly capture the futuristic design ethos synonymous with the Esprit during this era. Importantly, the car also retains its original extra-wide split-rim Compomotive alloy wheels, further enhancing its authenticity and presentation.

The accompanying history file is extensive and particularly impressive, befitting a Lotus of such significance. Supplied new by Lotus main dealers Randles of Stoke-on-Trent to its first owner, Mr D. Preston, the car retains its original owners wallet and service book together with original brochures, Lotus archive correspondence and supporting documentation. Also included is a current MOT valid until January 2027.

More recently, the car benefitted from a programme of mechanical works completed in November 2024. These included a full brake overhaul with calipers, attention to the turbo wastegate, replacement drive belts, resetting of the cam and ignition timing and the fitment of new spark plugs, helping to ensure the car remains well prepared for continued enjoyment.

Rarely do Essex Commemorative Edition Esprits come to market, particularly examples retaining such strong provenance, originality and presentation. Combining rarity, unmistakable period styling and direct links to one of Formula 1’s most memorable sponsorship eras, this highly collectible Essex Esprit represents an exceptional opportunity for the marque enthusiast or discerning collector alike.