1998 Lotus Esprit for Sale: Calypso Red Turbo V8 Five-Speed
The 1998 Lotus Esprit combines a turbocharged 3.5-liter V8 with a five-speed manual transaxle in a dramatic Lotus shape. Finished in Calypso Red over Black leather, it presents a vivid combination. Equipment includes staggered 17-inch front and 18-inch rear six-spoke wheels, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, Brembo front calipers, a removable roof panel, rear wing, air conditioning, Alpine CD stereo, tool kit, manufacturer’s literature, and partial service records. For enthusiasts seeking an analog exotic, this example blends turbocharged V8 power, manual engagement, and distinctive styling.
View the official listing below.
Engine and Performance
Power comes from a turbocharged 3.5-liter gasoline V8 paired with a five-speed manual transaxle. The gearbox keeps clutch timing, engine speed, and gear selection central to the experience. Turbocharged V8 power gives the Esprit a forceful character while preserving manual involvement. Together, the engine and five-speed create a driver-focused drivetrain suited to fast road use.
Engineering and Specifications
Six-spoke alloy wheels measure 17 inches at the front and 18 inches at the rear and wear 245/40 and 285/35 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires installed during current ownership. Four-wheel disc brakes use black Brembo front calipers, while the springs, dampers, and brake hoses were replaced at all four corners in 2017. Rear control-arm bushings and a power-steering hose were replaced in August 2022, and the right-rear wheel shows scuffing.
Design and Heritage
Calypso Red emphasizes the Esprit’s low nose, wedge profile, compact cabin, and wide rear bodywork. The removable roof panel and rear wing reinforce its exotic presentation, while staggered wheels add visual purpose. Inside, Black leather, air conditioning, and an Alpine CD stereo create a straightforward cabin with touring comfort.
Driving Experience
The turbocharged V8 and five-speed manual place boost response, clutch work, and gear choice directly in the driver’s hands. Staggered Michelin tires, four-wheel disc brakes, renewed suspension components, and Brembo front calipers provide a road foundation. The low seating position, removable roof panel, compact cockpit, and manual controls suit winding roads and weekend touring.
Why This Car is Special
- The turbocharged 3.5-liter V8 and five-speed manual transaxle create a distinctive Lotus performance drivetrain.
- Calypso Red over Black leather gives the Esprit a bold and recognizable presentation.
- Staggered 17- and 18-inch wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires support the purposeful stance.
- Brembo front calipers, four-wheel disc brakes, and documented suspension work strengthen the chassis specification.
- The removable roof panel, Alpine stereo, tool kit, manufacturer’s literature, and service records add ownership appeal.
Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 3.5-liter gasoline V8.
- Transmission: Five-speed manual transaxle.
- Wheels and tires: Six-spoke 17-inch front and 18-inch rear alloys with 245/40 and 285/35 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.
- Chassis and brakes: Four-wheel discs with black Brembo front calipers, replacement springs, dampers, brake hoses, rear control-arm bushings, and power-steering hose.
- Exterior and interior: Calypso Red, Black leather, removable roof panel, rear wing, air conditioning, Alpine CD stereo, tool kit, manufacturer’s literature, and partial service records.
Collector and Enthusiast Appeal
The 1998 Lotus Esprit combines turbocharged V8 performance, a five-speed manual transaxle, dramatic wedge styling, and useful touring equipment. Its Calypso Red finish, Black leather, staggered wheels, Michelin tires, Brembo front brakes, removable roof panel, and rear wing create a memorable specification. For collectors and drivers drawn to analog European exotics, this Esprit offers distinctive design, manual involvement, documented maintenance, and classic Lotus character.
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