Lot details Registration No: L44 MRM Chassis No: SCCO82G10PHA61046 Mot Expiry: T.B.A.
Facelifted by Julian Thomson, the S4 version of Lotus's long-running Esprit supercar was introduced in February 1993. Sporting a new front valance, re-contoured sideskirts / bumpers and more discreet rear wing, it was built on the same galvanised backbone chassis as its immediate SE predecessor. The first Esprit derivative to feature power assisted steering, it also benefited from revised spring / damper rates and re-profiled anti-roll bars for its all round independent suspension (double wishbone front / twin transverse link rear). Powered by a mid-mounted 2174cc DOHC turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a five-speed transaxle, it was reputedly capable of 165mph and 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds. With a quoted 264bhp and 260lbft of torque on tap (though, some felt that Lotus's ingenious 'chargecooler' generated significantly more oomph in the right climactic conditions), the provision of ABS-backed vented / solid disc brakes gave prodigious stopping power. No longer accessed via Morris Marina door handles, the model's Connolly hide trimmed interior boasted carbon-fibre dashboard inserts, air-conditioning, electric windows, central locking and a chunky Nardi wheel. Priced at £46,995 just 625 are thought to have been made in total (with 233 of those being despatched during 1993).
Finished in Calypso Red with sand / beige leather upholstery, this particular example is described by the vendor as being in "good" condition with regard to its 2174cc engine, five-speed manual gearbox, electrical equipment, bodywork, paintwork and wheels / tyres (while, he informs us that the interior trim was "fully reconditioned during October 2006"). Reportedly supplied new by Ryland of Birmingham on September 1st 1993, 'L44 MRM' is said to possess "full service history - stamped in book - up to 81,217 miles (January 15th 2004) plus service bills / repair bills / parts bills / tyre bills (33 in total) from April 11th 2002 until July 3rd 2006". Consequently believed to have covered 89,000 miles from new, the Esprit was last repaired by Lotus agent, Ribble Valley Motors. A modern performance classic, it is hoped that this exciting Lotus will have been issued with a new MOT certificate by the time of sale.
All successful bids must be paid in full by midday the day after the auction at the latest.
You can collect your new pride and joy from our venue until 1pm the day following the sale or our partners are on hand to help arrange safe transportation:
If so, contact one of our friendly specialists for your free valuation by completing the form below and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
If you prefer to speak to humans, don't hesitate to call our office on +44 (0)1925 210035