1990 Lotus Esprit

Highlights

  • Advisory-free MOT until 1st October 2025
  • Rare Stevens shape normally aspirated Esprit
  • Over £8,000 spent on recent maintenance and upgrades
  • Featured in Classic Cars May 2023 edition
  • Upgraded with power steering

The Appeal

The Esprit is still a remarkable looker decades on from release. Those lines and that silhouette are untouchable, and they only became sleeker and more contemporary in the much-desired Peter Stevens redesign. Factor in some of the best handling out there and a metric ton of charisma, and you've got a truly remarkable sports car with a dominating presence.

This particular 1990 X180 example is a real standout. It's covered only 43,045 miles from new - as proven by an extensive history file, and has recently been subject to over £8,000 in maintenance and new parts. The result is a highly capable, beautifully presented example of an increasingly scarce British sports car - so well-regarded that it deservedly featured in Classic Cars magazine in May 2023.

History and Paperwork

  • Registered in 1990
  • In current ownership since 1993
  • Featured in Classic Cars Magazine, May 2023
  • Always kept garaged
  • Indicates only 43,045 miles, which is reportedly proven by a comprehensive history file
  • MOT until 1st October 2025
  • Comprehensive history file
  • Handbook and spare key included

The Condition

  • Beautifully presented Stevens lines - free of any dents or dings
  • Calypso Red paintwork presents well with only light signs of use
  • Pop-up lights lifting correctly with no issues
  • Lotus alloys in excellent order
  • Full light tan leather interior
  • Everything here is very original and nicely kept
  • No sign of any rips
  • Lovely, clean dashboard with legible instruments
  • Removable glass sunroof with original stowage bag
  • Blaupunkt Bremen DAB radio with hands-free functionality
  • The vendor notes that the car is in first class condition inside, out, and underneath

The Mechanics

  • 2.2-Litre (2,174cc) Turbo 4-cylinder
  • Manual transmission with 5 gears
  • Producing 177bhp at 6,000 rpm
  • New cam-belt, water pump, and fuel pump
  • Fully rebuilt carburettors
  • Braided steel clutch hose and new header tank
  • Upgraded with electrical power steering
  • Tested upon a rolling road and tuned accordingly with no faults encountered


BEFORE YOU BUY 
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following: 
The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions.. 
We request that a non-refundable fee  be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates. 
This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind. 
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing. 
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Auction Details
  • Year 1990
  • Make Lotus
  • Model Esprit
  • Colour Red
  • Odometer 43,045 Miles
  • Engine size 2174
  • Seller type Private
  • Town Whitstable
  • County Kent
  • Country United Kingdom
  • Auction ends
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