1989 Lotus Esprit Turbo '40th Anniversary'
Number 4 of just 40 UK examples

Registration No: F962 NLE
Chassis No: SCC082910KHD13426
Mot: June 2025

• No 4 out of only 40 produced for the UK market
• Significant recent maintenance including a new oil cooler, new drive shafts and engine refresh
• Fitted with a stainless steel exhaust plus lift out and tilt glass sunroof
• Owner's handbook and comprehensive service history

Revamped for 1987, the Esprit was restyled by Peter Stevens (later of McLaren F1 fame) who gave the mid-engined two-seater a more rounded, softer look, coincident with which Lotus introduced a new, more automated body manufacture process called VARI (Vacuum Assisted Resin Injection). Complete with Kevlar reinforcement to the roof and sides, this made the newcomer (codenamed X180) twenty-two percent stiffer than its predecessor. Introduced at the October 1988 British Motor Show to celebrate four decades of the marque, the Lotus Esprit Turbo ‘40^th Anniversary’ model was limited to eighty-eight examples worldwide (forty of which were destined for the home market). Finished in Pearlescent White which extended to the wheels and door mirrors too, the two-seater also sported a strut-mounted rear wing, front air dam, Blue / Grey upholstery, burr elm instrument surround, Sony CD autochanger and silver commemorative dashboard plaque. Mechanically standard, the UK versions were powered by Lotus’ proven 2.2-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine allied to five-speed manual transmission. Reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 5.4 seconds and over 150mph, Hethel’s mid-engined rocketship offered a ride / handling balance that few rivals (no matter how exotic) could match.

Significantly improved since entering the current ownership in 2018, Number 04 has benefited from attention to its engine (cambelt change, oil cooler) cooling system (radiator, fans, cowling), battery, drive shaft oil seals and fuel system (pump, tank) etc. Further treated to new brake discs / pads and Protech rear suspension, the Lotus exhales via a stainless steel exhaust system. The original owner’s handbook is complemented by numerous invoices. Said to present very well and to pleasingly retain its correct and distinctive ‘40^th Anniversary’ interior, ‘F962 NLE’ looks every inch the late 1980s supercar! Rare and desirable in equal measure, this turbocharged Lotus is offered for sale with V5C Registration Document and history file.

For more information, please contact:
Angus Fender
angus.fender@handh.co.uk
07958490484