Brampton, ON | Canada
$19,500
/ USDDescription
This 1989 Lotus Esprit SE Turbo is the rare Stevens Edition X180. The same car that 007 James Bond drove in the 1989 movie, "For Your Eyes Only" and the Richard Gere and Julia Roberts movie "Pretty Woman". This "super car" was purchased as an exceptionally original and well maintained, drivable vehicle, with the intention of making it a classic track car. The photos reveal the current condition of the exterior fiberglass body. The original paint has been professionally removed, primed, blocke...
Our Take:
- Lotus Esprit SE Turbo Design and Performance: This '89 Esprit SE Turbo, designed by Peter Stevens, was part of the X180 series that transformed Lotus's image in the late '80s. With its lightweight fiberglass body and a turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-4 engine, it was known for delivering a spirited drive—pushing around 264 horsepower, which was quite spectacular for its time.
- Cinematic Fame: While the seller mentions "For Your Eyes Only," it was actually the Lotus Esprit from the early '80s featured in that Bond film—this model did gain fame in "Pretty Woman" alongside Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. It's always fascinating how movie appearances elevate a car's collectible status, isn’t it?
- Rarity and Collector’s Potential: The fact that the paint's been stripped and prepped for a fresh coat suggests an opportunity to finish this classic with a bespoke touch. Including all the original parts and extras like the Toyo Proxes R888 race tires means it could potentially make a stunning restoration—or, alternatively, an amusing racer with those bits installed.
- Meticulously Documented History: Having a complete history with manuals, window sticker, and brochures enhances the appeal for collectors. This documentation can sometimes tell a more compelling story than the odometer and will be appreciated by those who view cars as artifacts of cultural memory rather than just machines.