1989 Lotus Esprit Turbo SE

1987 saw the first of the Peter Stevens era "X180" cars, which had more rounded styling in comparison to the earlier Giugiaro designs. The SE trim level designated a turbocharged 2.2 liter "910S" engine, which put out roughly 264 horsepower as a result of a new air to water intercooler, penned "chargecooler" by Lotus. Special Equipment (SE) cars also had more aggressive styling with new side skirts, air ducts in the front bumper, and a rear wing.

This particular Esprit is unique because it was the North American press car, featured in Car and Driver, Auto Week, and Motor Week's Retro Review video in 1989. I have confirmed with Lotus Classic that this was a press car used for most early tests, photo shoots, and reviews. It remains in outstanding condition.

This is one of only roughly 1600 Esprit Turbo SE’s produced, with a 0-60 time of 4.7 seconds and a 160 mph top speed, it was no slouch in 1989 and is no slouch today!