Which V-8?

[indy007]

Hello....I have heard starting from either 98 or 99, the v8's come with a new clutch/transmission which is supposed to be a lot better than the previous model....the question is....which year is it...98 or 99....I know the interior changed in 98, but I want to know if the clutch etc. also changed during that year. Thanks, Indy.

[kmaier]

I'll give you some... but be certain to visit Karl's website at www.espritfactfile.com as it contains a lot of information on model years.

The big change for the V8 was 1998. In addition to the new rear wing and interior, both the clutch was changed and the gear shifter with associated linkage. From 1998 onward there is no translator at the gearbox. The shifter cables connect directly. Also note that ALL 1997 cars in the US have had the clutch replaced with the AP racing twin-plate clutch and as such is a moot point.

So, if you opt for a 1997 model, the shifter linkage isn't as crisp (and it's relative) and you have the older interior with the big box of dials in front of you. Some people like lots of indicators... your choice.

Beyond 1998, some additional changes happen in 1999 with the shifter knob and surround and the instrument cluster gets a brushed aluminum faceplate to replace the black one. You also get new wheels by OZ Racing to replace the AWI wheels.

2000 is the next big change. Cosmetics are the first part. The lower rear spoiler by the muffler and the rear tail light surrounds get painted body color instead of flat black. The interior also gets body colored paint on the shifter surround and door panel inserts. The brake and clutch pedals now have drilled alloys pads as standard. The OZ Racing wheels now have Lotus center caps.

Also in 2000 you get the final brake upgrade. The fronts are all new using AP Racing 4-pot calipers and AP Racing 2-piece rotors which are curved vane, drilled at 320mm diameter. The rear retains the Brembo caliper which also includes the emergency brake but is remounted and a new AP Racing 2-piece rotor of 320mm diameter is used. The ECM receives new mapping for better torque in the lower gears. Note that the brakes and ECM upgrade are borrowed from the 1999 Sport 350 (8 were brought into the US).

The 2001 model changed the year and a slight fuel diagnostic. So for all practical purposes the 2000 and 2001 models are the same.

Hope this helps.... I opted for a 2000 MY.

Regards, KM
2000 V8

[indy007]

I think I'll go for the 98 and up V8. I've been in two V8s so far, a 2000 and a 2002, and I really liked the clutch and interior and those ones.
Also, I got another question. If I go for a GT model (in Europe), what sacrifices do I have to accept. They're quite a bit cheaper than the SE model, so it would be a good deal. Do they come with a/c or airbags? Also, do the GT seats give you more leg room than the standard seats?
I'd just like to hear some opinions on why or why not I should buy a GT.
Appreciate it, Indy

[rob.ellis]

indy007 said: I think I'll go for the 98 and up V8. I've been in two V8s so far, a 2000 and a 2002, and I really liked the clutch and interior and those ones.
Also, I got another question. If I go for a GT model (in Europe), what sacrifices do I have to accept. They're quite a bit cheaper than the SE model, so it would be a good deal. Do they come with a/c or airbags? Also, do the GT seats give you more leg room than the standard seats?
I'd just like to hear some opinions on why or why not I should buy a GT.
Appreciate it, Indy

No uk spec cars had an airbag an standard but it was an option on both the v8-se and the v8-gt. The v8-gt does not have a leather dash (its vinyl, but no-one can really spot the difference) and had lightweight sports seats, and came without aircon or a rear spoiler. Lots of owners paid to get the spoiler, aircon and SE style seats. I've also seen some later gt's with the leather dash too. Yes, the sports seats give you more leg/head room.

If you can buy 2000 MY or later you'll get an upgraded ecu and AP racing brakes which are better than the brembos on an earlier car.