1990 Lotus Esprit

Imperial War Museum | Duxford, Cambridgeshire 18000 - 22000 Registration No: C18 SCB Chassis No: SCC085912LHD13657 MOT: March 2026 � Just 54,682 recorded miles � 1 of just 1,562 Lotus Esprit (X180) cars understood to have been made from 1987-1991 � Extensive maintenance work carried out at 53,780 miles � Owned by a discerning collector and always garaged � Desirable and collectable modern Lotus In October 1987, the Esprit received its first revamp since its initial launch in 1976 and was given the project codename �X180�. This design was the work of Peter Stevens, who was also responsible for the styling of the Lotus Elan M100 and McLaren F1. Whilst it retained the basic creativity behind the original Giorgetto Giugiaro design, it featured more curves and smoother lines, which helped to reduce the drag coefficient to only 0.33. It was, in essence, a re-styled bodyshell on an established, proven chassis and displayed �Turbo� badges behind the line where the door shut. At the rear, there was an aerodynamically profiled under tray/spoiler to remove hot air from the engine compartment and cool the brakes. Mechanically, the X180 differed little from its predecessor, the Esprit Turbo HC, with its 2,174cc, 16-valve, double overhead cam, Lotus 910 engine, developing the same 215bhp, and 220ft/lbs of torque. One important change was the gearbox with the Citro�n/Maserati 5-speed unit being replaced by that from the Renault Alpine GTA saloon, which provided slightly higher gear ratios. Other improvements, following a redesign of the interior, included increased headroom and legroom, and a wider footwell. The X180 was a financial success, with 1,058 examples being built in 1988, a figure that would never be repeated. This well cared-for Esprit was first registered on 28th June, 1990 by Cardiff dealer White Dove Garages, who are still in business today. The vendor purchased the Esprit from his dear friend and collector who had owned it for many years prior. Extensive works have previously been carried-out by a reputable dealer with invoices that document it. They include; full servicing, engine belts, engine service items, gearbox servicing, work to the coolant system and overhaul work to the brakes. Inside, the Esprit has previously benefitted from the seats having been refinished in the original colour, the dash pod and steering wheel re-finished in Black, carpets removed and detailed, a retrimmed headliner, the re-finishing of the door cards, replacement window channel rubbers, replacement door seals, replacement sunroof seal rubbers, a new gearstick decal and new Lotus Esprit badges to the original spec. We have a stamped service book on file and can see the car has been maintained with a Lotus dealer and with specialists. Said to have 'been garaged and never out in the rain', a lack of use has prompted the vendor's wish for someone else to enjoy driving an iconic Lotus. It is offered with a current V5C Registration Document.