1988 Lotus Esprit Manual

NSW • Private
17
Odometer65,000km
Body typeCoupe
FuelPetrol
TransmissionManual

Comments from the seller

I have for sale what is likely one of the best examples of a 1988 Lotus Esprit Turbo in Australia. Over 500 hours and more than $80,000 have been invested in a recent refurbishment, with no expense spared. Since completion, the car has not been driven in the rain and has been meticulously maintained. It presents in immaculate condition and turns heads wherever it goes, having already won Best of Show at several events. Engine The engine was fully refurbished by Neil Trama and upgraded with a number of tasteful performance enhancements. It now runs individual throttle bodies controlled by a Motec M800 ECU, supported by a custom-built engine wiring loom. An upgraded T4 turbocharger has also been fitted, creating a more modern and responsive setup. The engine produces a healthy 180kW at the wheels, which feels exceptionally strong given the car’s light 1200kg weight. Every hose, pipe, cable and bolt-on component has been replaced with new items, including a new starter motor, alternator, and air conditioning compressor. All other components have been professionally painted or polished. The car is also fitted with extractors, a custom dump pipe and a stainless-steel exhaust system that delivers an outstanding sound. Gearbox The gearbox has been fully serviced, with a new flywheel and clutch installed. Body The entire underside of the car has been repainted, with all suspension components, bushes and mounts replaced. The car is also fitted with brand new alloy fuel tanks. Suspension The car now runs coilover suspension, providing a sporty yet very comfortable ride. Brakes The braking system has been comprehensively refreshed with new pads, rotors, wheel bearings, and fully overhauled brake calipers. Interior The interior features brand new custom carpets throughout, while the leather trim remains in very good condition. Wheels The original wheels have been professionally polished and are supplied as pictured. A set of custom BBS-style wheels is also available. Spares The sale includes a spare working 2.2L engine and gearbox in good condition, along with a large collection of additional spare parts. If you are searching for one of the finest Lotus Esprit Turbos in Australia, this car will not disappoint. It drives beautifully, sounds incredible, and has been restored to an exceptional standard. The decision to sell has not been an easy one. The vehicle is currently registered on Historic Registration. Inspections are available at Taren Point by appointment.

Car details

ø
Vehicle description
Coupe 2dr Man 5sp 2.2 [IMP]
Powerplant type
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)
Cost to insure
Exterior colour
Red
Interior colour
Cream
Body type
Coupe, 2 doors, 2 seats
Transmission
5 speed Manual
Engine
4 cylinders, Petrol Aspirated, 2.2L
Cost of financeSponsored
Registration plate
Check with seller
Registration expiry
1 month/June 2026
Build date
July 1988
Compliance date
July 2023
Roadworthy certificate
carsales Network ID
SSE-AD-20151609
Engine type
Piston
Engine Location
Mid-Rear
Engine Size (cc)
2174cc
Engine Size (L)
2.2L
Induction
Aspirated
Engine Configuration
In-line
Cylinders
4
Camshaft
Double Overhead Cam
Valves/Ports per Cylinder
4
Engine Code
912s
Generic Engine Type
Piston
Power
128.3kW @ 6500rpm
Torque
221Nm @ 5000rpm
Power to Weight Ratio
109.0kW/t
Gears
5
Gear Type
Manual
Gear Location
Floor
Drive
Rear Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Petrol
Fuel Delivery
Carburettor Multiple
Method of Delivery
Mechanical
Length
4330mm
Width
1860mm
Height
1138mm
Wheelbase
2438mm
Kerb Weight
1177kg
Country of Origin
UNITED KINGDOM
Launch Year
1988
Launch Month
1
Generation Name
X180
Series
X180
Badge
(No Badge)
Doors
2
Seat Capacity
2
Body Style
Coupe
Victoria
Approved
Queensland
Approved
South Australia
Approved
Australian Capital Territory
Approved
Western Australia
Approved
Northern Territory
Approved
Tasmania
Approved
Pay less to upgrade to this car
Estimated cost before offer
Get an offer for your car and reduce the overall cost of this purchase
Accept your offer online
Get paid in 1 business day
Upgrade to your next car
Anthony is the seller
Location
Taren Point, NSW 2229
Member since
2013
Verified information
Phone number

Get in touch with the seller

By proceeding, you agree to carsales network's T&Cs and Privacy Policy. See Personal Information Collection Statement.By ticking 'I'm interested in finance', you consent to carsales network providing your information to Driva Pty Ltd who may contact you. carsales network may receive referral fees or loan commissions.
This seller has not provided a contact number. Send a message to the seller instead.

Get in touch with the seller

By proceeding, you agree to carsales network's T&Cs and Privacy Policy. See Personal Information Collection Statement.By ticking 'I'm interested in finance', you consent to carsales network providing your information to Driva Pty Ltd who may contact you. carsales network may receive referral fees or loan commissions.
This seller has not provided a contact number. Send a message to the seller instead.
ø Specifications have been sourced from Automotive Data Services Pty Ltd (Redbook) and are based on manufacturer standard features and specifications, some of which may require subscription. Actual features and specifications for this vehicle may differ. Please confirm these details with the seller.
+ P-Plate approval status is provided as a guide only, using data sourced from a variety of government and industry based sources. You should verify the status of the vehicle with relevant state / territory authorities and the vehicle manufacturer / authorised agent. carsales is not liable for any loss or damages (other than in respect of any liability which may not lawfully be excluded) relating to your use of, or reliance on, data contained on this site. By using this site you acknowledge that you use the information subject to the terms of the above disclaimer and notice.
Scan to download the carsales app
    DownloadAppCta
    AppStoreDownloadGooglePlayDownload
    Want more info? Here’s our app landing page App Store and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.
    © carsales.com.au Pty Ltd 1999-2026
    In the spirit of reconciliation we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.