Richmond, VA | USA
$47,500
/ USDDescription
All original 26,000 miles; excellent condition. Turbocharged 2.2-liter inline-four engine producing 264 horsepower, with a power boost to 280 horsepower, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. See less...
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Our Take:
- Rarity and Performance: The 1989 Lotus Esprit Turbo SE is a fascinating piece of automotive history, embodying the spirit of innovation and performance from a bygone era. With Lotus only producing a limited number of these Turbo SE variants, finding one with just 26,000 original miles is like striking gold in the car world.
- Engineering Marvel: The 2.2-liter inline-four engine may seem modest by today's standards, but with a turbocharged boost, it delivers a punchy 280 horsepower. It's a reminder of the era when lightweight design and clever turbocharging were the keys to exhilarating speed—achieving a 0-60 mph in just 4.7 seconds.
- Design and Iconography: The Esprit's wedge shape is iconic and instantly recognizable to those familiar with James Bond's underwater antics—though, this particular variant sticks to dry land! Penned by the legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the lines still look razor-sharp even today, cutting through the air and time alike.
- Driving Experience: With a manual transmission, this car promises an engaging and raw driving experience for purists who relish the mechanical connection between man and machine. In the late '80s, this was about as exotic as it got without crossing into the supercar realm—and it still offers that sweet siren call of turbo whine and open-road adventure.
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