British firm Encor is reviving the iconic 1975 Lotus Esprit S1 with a limited run of 50 meticulously reworked vehicles. The price? A staggering $570,000 – exceeding the cost of two new Ferraris. But the performance and sound suggest it might be worth every penny.
From Classic Wedge to Modern Powerhouse
The reborn Esprit, dubbed the Series 1, isn’t a mere restoration; it’s a reimagining. While drawing inspiration from the original, Encor opted for the more robust platform of the 1994 Series 4 model. This ensures a stronger chassis and provides a solid foundation for significant upgrades. The result is a vehicle that honors the past while embracing modern performance.
The Heart of the Beast: A Twin-Turbo V8
The Series 1 is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (Type 918). This engine has been extensively modified with new turbochargers, pistons, and injectors, boosting output to 400 hp at 6,200 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. This is a dramatic improvement over the original Esprit S1’s four-cylinder engine, addressing its limitations while preserving the car’s spirit.
The engine’s sound is particularly striking: a deep burble that mimics a naturally aspirated V8, even with forced induction. At high revs, it promises an intoxicating experience for any enthusiast.
Modernized Mechanics, Timeless Feel
Encor hasn’t just focused on horsepower. The Series 1 features a new ECU with electronic throttle-body control for improved precision. Power is delivered through a reworked five-speed manual transmission, retaining some original casing parts while enhancing durability. The car sprints from 0-60 mph in just 4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 175 mph.
Hydraulically assisted steering provides maximum feedback, while AP Racing brakes, upgraded suspension, and anti-roll bars ensure confident handling. A limited-slip differential further enhances stability and control.
Lightweight Design, Premium Materials
The bodywork is crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, keeping the wet weight down to just 2,645 lbs (1,200 kg). This yields an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 333 hp per tonne. The design remains faithful to the original Giugiaro-penned shape, offering a contemporary aesthetic without sacrificing the Esprit’s iconic silhouette.
Exclusivity Comes at a Price
Production is limited to 50 units, each priced at £430,000 (approximately $570,000). The cost doesn’t include the donor Series 4 V8 engine, which buyers must provide separately. This exclusivity and high price point position the Encor Esprit Series 1 as a premium offering for discerning collectors and performance enthusiasts.
The Esprit’s revival highlights a growing trend of boutique automakers resurrecting classic sports cars with modern engineering. While the price tag is steep, the combination of heritage, performance, and exclusivity makes this Lotus a formidable contender in the high-end automotive market.
