1979 Lotus Esprit S2 JPS #68/100

Please note the correct number plate for the car is KVO 798V.

Technically called the 'World Championship Commemorative Model', but more colloquially known as the John Player Special, this was the first and arguably the most memorable limited-edition Esprit from Lotus. Dubbed the JPS due to its distinctive black and gold livery, inspired by the ground effect, JPS-sponsored, championship-winning Lotus 79 cars of the period, as raced by Mario Andretti and Ronnie Petersen. Originally planned to build 200 examples, it was believed that just 185 were produced; 100 for the UK, 55 for the United States and 30 for Europe. The eye-catching specification included gold-coloured side-stripes complete with World Champion lettering, gold-coloured front and rear windscreen surrounds and alloy wheels, gold-effect corduroy seat inserts and a 3-spoke leather-rimmed steering wheel instead of the normal plastic offering. The 'Juke Box' installed was a Hitachi Digi-One radio-cassette. The 1,973cc 16-valve DOHC engine delivered a feisty 160bhp which was sufficient to sprint the 1,980lb glass fibre-bodied two-seater to 60mph in 6.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 124mph. The short production run lasted from December 1978 to July 1979.

This immaculate example is Number 68, however, as we understand and know Lotus from that period, it is unknown what number it was in the production line. Our vendor confessed to getting somewhat carried away with the restoration, and as part of the process, #68 had a full body-off, glass-out restoration, including a respray and new stickers to ensure no stone was unturned and the car would be as good as new, if not better, which we feel he’s achieved by some distance. A number of top specialists have been involved in the car's transformation, and the results are very impressive, with a fabulous level of finish whilst still maintaining the character of the car, which is no easy feat!

The restoration catalogue is fantastic, featuring new aluminium fuel tanks, brake line hoses, new aluminium radiator, new coolant hoses, Wilwood front callipers and discs (originals to go with the car) and new suspension and bushes all round. The engine was overhauled including new liners, crank reground and new pistons c.2,000 miles ago and a stainless-steel exhaust system including 4-into-1 manifold fitted to help it sing. The list goes on, making for an incredibly pleasant driving experience.

The history file is good, containing old invoices and MOTs. Superbly presented and indicating only 72,746 miles, this is an exceptionally high-quality example that would cost a small fortune to replicate. With the combination of comfortable mileage and the quality of restoration, this very special Lotus would sit equally as perfectly in the hands of a collector as it would in the hands of an enthusiast wanting to get out and drive it.

Under our vendor's watchful eye, this exceptional Lotus received a final touch of perfection, with an expenditure of £4,200 at GST Performance to address gearbox linkages, exhaust heat shielding, and various minor refinements that naturally arise after a comprehensive restoration.

As we contemplate the electric future of Lotus cars, there has never been a more opportune moment to embrace the legacy of these classic, petrol-powered marvels. They are the very vehicles that have allowed the Norwich-born David and Goliath brand to weather the test of time with resounding success.