1989 Lotus Esprit SE – Intercooled Turbo, Extensive Engine Rebuild, Clean Title

Vehicle Description

1989 Lotus Esprit SE – Intercooled Turbo | Extensive Engine Rebuild | Clean Title & Records

A full set of images and driving video are available at:
https://forestmotorcollective.com/1989-lotus-esprit-se-intercooled-turbo-extensive-engine-rebuild-clean-title-records/

This well-maintained Esprit SE is exceptionally clean, runs strong, and drives beautifully. It has a clean title, no accident history, and a clean Carfax. The car comes with service and parts manuals plus detailed maintenance records dating back to 1997 (around 30k miles). Tires and brakes are recent, and the exhaust system has been upgraded for a richer tone than stock. A Gates blue timing belt was reportedly replaced within the past four years. The air conditioning does not blow cold, however the previous owner states that is is operational, and just needs a refrigerant re-charge.

Major Mechanical Restoration:At 67,745 miles in late 1999, the car received an extensive mechanical overhaul to address critical timing issues. Work included:

• Complete cylinder-head rebuild

• New pistons and liners

• Rebuilt turbocharger

• Full timing system replacement

• Refreshed chargecooler, coolant reservoir, and oil cooler

• Replacement of a cracked exhaust manifold

Over $12,600 was invested, leaving the drivetrain comprehensively rebuilt and well-documented for reliable performance.

Driving & Mechanical Condition

• Gearbox shifts smoothly with no grinding or pop-out.

• Clutch feels strong and healthy.

• No noticeable oil or fluid leaks.

• Starts easily and pulls hard—noticeably faster than the 1995 Esprit S4 I personally owned several years ago.

Interior:The cabin is in excellent condition, restored at some point. Aftermarket seats add extra padding, slightly reducing legroom; taller drivers (6 ft.+) may prefer the original seat configuration. All gauges function properly. Headlight pods work, though the driver side only rises about three-quarters—an easy fix with inexpensive replacement gear sets.Exterior:Professionally repainted in its original color, the fiberglass body shows deep gloss and minimal spider-cracking. Expect typical rock chips on the front hood and bumper (see photos). The windshield has a small crack at the lower passenger corner which has been stop drilled to prevent spreading.

This Esprit SE blends documented mechanical restoration, excellent cosmetics, and strong performance, ready to drive and enjoy.