After speculation that had been around since the mid-‘80s, 1996 was the year that saw the Esprit finally gain the V-8 it had deserved for so long. The V-8 finally arrived due to new tighter emissions laws from the United States. It was felt that the four-cylinder turbos would not have passed, and this pushed the 20 year old Esprit to a new level of performance. It was rated at 175-mph and 0- to 100-mph in 10.5 seconds, which allowed a big improvement over the four-cylinder turbo and put the V-8 on a par with Ferrari and Porsche rivals. There were few exterior changes made to the already stunning design, save for even larger wheels and, of course, the V-8 badge.

Finished in fantastic “fly yellow” with a black interior; the Lotus runs with the healthy twin turbocharged 214-cid, 350-hp all-aluminum V-8 engine that was designed and built by Lotus. This is known as the Type 918 unit and originally produced 500-hp, but was detuned to add product life. The transmission is a six-speed manual. The car features a true exotic car environment with wonderful full leather upholstery. The appearance alone will turn heads; the size of the rear wing and girth of the rubber cannot go without notice. Additional equipment includes OZ Racing alloy wheels, air conditioning, sunroof, VDO instrumentation, radio with CD; power windows, steering and Brembo four-wheel disc brakes.

The Lotus has been driven in a prudent manner and its high level of condition is backed by no expenses spared for proper maintenance.