A reimagined Lotus Esprit Series 1 is set to return, courtesy of Encor, a new automotive firm staffed by former Lotus engineers. The revival brings a significant power boost and modern enhancements to the iconic 1970s sports car, nearly four decades after production ceased.
A Faithful Reinvention
Encor plans to produce 50 units of the updated Esprit, each priced around £430,000. The firm’s chief engineer, Will Ives, states the goal was to preserve the original’s “analogue driving experience” while integrating contemporary technology for improved usability. This means a modernized take on a classic without sacrificing what made it special.
The team took a pragmatic approach, acknowledging the need for improvements despite their respect for the original design. Chief designer Dan Durrant, also behind the Lotus Emira’s exterior, emphasized their commitment to staying true to the Esprit’s spirit.
From Series 4 Base to Modern Power
Despite being labeled a Series 1 reimagining, the project leverages the chassis of the later Series 4 V8 Esprit. This decision was made for structural integrity, as the Series 4 featured a more robust design.
The most substantial change lies under the hood. Encor replaced the original 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a rebuilt 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the Series 4, increasing output to 400bhp and 350lb ft of torque. This represents a staggering 240bhp and 210lb ft improvement over the original Esprit’s specifications.
“We wanted to respect the original but not be handcuffed by it… there was just so much opportunity to improve it.” – Will Ives, Encor Chief Engineer
A Complement, Not a Competitor
Encor has not collaborated with Lotus on this project, but co-founder Simon Lane hopes the company views the revival as a complementary effort. The reimagined Esprit aims to capture the essence of the original while delivering modern performance and refinement.
The reintroduction of this classic model underscores the enduring appeal of the Lotus Esprit. It also demonstrates how passionate engineers can breathe new life into beloved vehicles by combining heritage with contemporary technology.
