To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Arizona
event, 17 - 18 January 2019.
Estimate:
$80,000 - $100,000
- Single ownership for four decades
- Showing just over 15,000 miles
- Retains its numbers-matching engine and gearbox
- Original paint in rare and eye-catching Oxford Blue
- One of 36 examples delivered in this color
Please note that this lot is titled as a 1978.
When the production Esprit arrived at 1975's Paris Motor Show, it
stood in marked contrast to the bug-eyed Europa. Finally, here was
a Lotus that led the way not only in how the rear mid-engine coupe
drove but in how it grabbed the spotlight. Underneath its
fiberglass body sat a steel backbone chassis.
The S1 offered here is easily distinguished from a second-series
car by its simple, unadorned look - created by the lack of
rear-quarter ducting, black front and rear bumpers, and lack of
side air ducts behind the passenger compartment. Parked next to the
less angular update that carried the Esprit into the 21st century,
this Series 1 is a throwback to another era.
Perfectly maintained in its original Oxford Blue - one of 36 such
examples - over the original Oatmeal cloth and brown Marcasite
interior, this first series Esprit remained with its original owner
for 30 years. Purchased last year by the current owner with only
14,800 original miles, the Lotus has recently undergone a
sympathetic mechanical restoration totaling 1,000 hours of work.
All mechanical components were tested and rebuilt as necessary,
while the body was separated from the wishbone chassis, which was
blasted and repainted to ensure no corrosion. The work included a
complete engine rebuild, along with attention to the suspension,
brakes, and transmission - ensuring that the Lotus looks and runs
as it did when it left the factory.
Offered today is a stunning example of the first Esprit with its
unassisted power steering and sharp handling, considered the purest
of a breed that lasted nearly 30 years. Included is a comprehensive
selection of photos and invoices documenting the mechanical
restoration, along with the Lotus Certificate of Vehicle
Provenance, original Bill of Sale, owner's manual, extremely rare
complete tool kit, jack, and car cover. The car has been driven
some 500 miles since acquisition, and it is ready for its next
owner to enjoy.
A perfect piece for the new investor or those beginning to build
their collection of modern sports cars, this highly original and
low-mileage S1 Esprit is one of the finest extant.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction,
please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/az19.
