Encor Series 1 Lotus Esprit
The Encor Series 1 brings the first generation Lotus Esprit back into the spotlight with a fresh approach that respects the past while pushing performance into modern territory. Instead of creating a straight replica, Encor scanned an original Esprit and refined its proportions, then replaced the old fiberglass shell with a seamless carbon body. The wedge shape stays, but everything else feels stronger, cleaner and more purposeful.
Power comes from a rebuilt three point five liter twin turbo V8 sourced from a later Esprit V8 chassis, chosen for identity and registration. With forged internals, new turbos and upgraded cooling, it now delivers around four hundred horsepower and strong mid range torque. At less than twenty six hundred pounds, the Series 1 promises sub four second launches and a top speed near one hundred seventy five miles per hour. The five speed manual returns with a stronger shaft, revised ratios and a helical limited slip differential for sharper response.
The stance is slightly wider to support modern tires and cooling, while compact LED projectors hide inside low profile pop up housings. AP Racing brakes, Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs give it true analog supercar handling. Steering stays hydraulic to keep the original Esprit feel intact.
Inside, the cabin keeps its classic low slung layout but upgrades everything. A billet aluminum instrument cluster wraps around a digital display, the carbon center structure cleans up controls, and tartan trimmed seats bring back the seventies look with better comfort.
Power comes from a rebuilt three point five liter twin turbo V8 sourced from a later Esprit V8 chassis, chosen for identity and registration. With forged internals, new turbos and upgraded cooling, it now delivers around four hundred horsepower and strong mid range torque. At less than twenty six hundred pounds, the Series 1 promises sub four second launches and a top speed near one hundred seventy five miles per hour. The five speed manual returns with a stronger shaft, revised ratios and a helical limited slip differential for sharper response.
The stance is slightly wider to support modern tires and cooling, while compact LED projectors hide inside low profile pop up housings. AP Racing brakes, Bilstein dampers and Eibach springs give it true analog supercar handling. Steering stays hydraulic to keep the original Esprit feel intact.
Inside, the cabin keeps its classic low slung layout but upgrades everything. A billet aluminum instrument cluster wraps around a digital display, the carbon center structure cleans up controls, and tartan trimmed seats bring back the seventies look with better comfort.
Only fifty cars will be built and each requires a donor Esprit. With prices starting at four hundred thirty thousand pounds before taxes, the Encor Series 1 is a rare tribute that finally gives the Esprit the modern encore it deserves.
