1990 Lotus Esprit SE - 2.2L Turbo - Appealing Opportunity To Recommission

Vehicle Description

**More images, driving video and Carfax available at:
https://forestmotorcollective.com/1990-lotus-esprit-se/

This 1990 Lotus Esprit SE holds a clean Texas title, with the only notation being:“Mileage exceeds mechanical limits / VIN verification waived.”

The only mileage discrepancy on the Carfax appears in 1996, where the Alabama Motor Vehicle Department reported 100,749 miles. The next entry, in 1999, shows 18,092 miles. It is likely that the 1996 mileage entry was a clerical error and should have read 10,749. All subsequent mileage entries track consistently, aligning with the current odometer reading of 51,748 miles. There are no reports of total loss or accident history on record, and based on a visual inspection, there is no evidence of prior accident damage.

Mechanically, the car starts and idles well, and no oil leaks have been observed—an impressive note for any vintage Esprit. However, there is a fuel delivery issue. The previous owner reported that one or both fuel tanks may be rusted, which has likely caused a clog in the system. This is a common issue with Esprits, due to the design of their metal tanks. As a result, the car drives slowly and hesitates under throttle, but will accelerate gently (please refer to the driving video).

The gearbox is typical of the Esprit—vague and loose—but it engages all gears without issue. During our road test, first, second, and reverse were used under load with no problems. A new radiator and fans were recently installed. The air conditioning system was reportedly serviced and recharged, but it did not blow cold air during testing. There is no documentation regarding the timing belt, and we cannot confirm when it was last replaced.

The interior is mostly complete, though some cosmetic changes have been made. The original gray leather and trim have been dyed or coated in another color, and the coating is peeling in places, especially on the seats. All gauges appear operational, with the exception of the turbo gauge, which could not be tested due to the fuel delivery issue.

The exterior is in excellent cosmetic condition, likely having been professionally repainted at some point. The paintwork has a deep gloss and strong presentation, superior to many original-finish examples from the same era. Blemishes are minimal, and the body and paint are among the highlights of the car. The headlight pods function properly, both low beams are working, while one high beam and one amber front running light are out. The brake lights are operational.

Underneath, the chassis and undercarriage are in excellent condition, consistent with a well-preserved, accident-free vehicle.

This Esprit SE—styled by Peter Stevens—represents an appealing project opportunity for a buyer looking to recommission and enjoy a rare and iconic 1990s exotic. With strong cosmetics and a solid platform, it’s a great candidate for gradual improvement and future enjoyment.

Note: This vehicle is not available for sale in California.

The description above provides only a general overview of the vehicle and should not be the buyer’s only source of information. It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify the vehicle’s authenticity, matching numbers, condition, year, model, make, type, rarity, history, and any other important details.

This vehicle description is presented to the best of our knowledge at the time of posting. While we make every reasonable effort to provide accurate and complete information, we do not guarantee the accuracy of any details and assume no liability for any errors, omissions, or misstatements. We welcome and appreciate any corrections or additional information.

Please be advised that we sell classic vehicles in varying conditions and may not identify every flaw, defect, or issue. All vehicles are sold strictly as-is, without any express or implied warranties, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

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