1996 Lotus Esprit V8

Released as the successor to the hugely popular Lotus Elan, the Esprit was unveiled to the world at the Paris Motor Show in 1975, and didn’t cease production until 2003, with 10,500 units produced and rightfully gaining a loyal following along the way. While the last-of-the-line examples look undeniably progressed compared to the original S1, the Giorgetto Giugiaro-based design clearly flows through all four Series of Esprits.

The vast majority of Esprit were fitted with four-cylinder engines, both naturally aspirated and turbocharged, in 2.0 or 2.2-litre capacities but, from 1996, the in-house, Lotus-built twin-turbo V8 was finally ready to be ordered by those brave enough. This remarkable Type 918 V8 was an all-aluminium, 90° DOHC, 4-valves per cylinder engine with two Garrett turbochargers, built to produce around 500bhp but detuned to 350bhp in the interest of durability and reliability. Standing at just 1.12 metres (44.1in) high, the Esprit's low-slung, rakish aesthetic emanates the suggestion of speed even when stationary and, with 0-60 being dispatched in a fraction over four seconds on the way to a top speed of 175mph, the V8 GT's performance perfectly matches its looks.

On offer from long-term, 13-year ownership, this lovely 1996 Nightfall Blue over Magnolia Leather Esprit V8 is now for sale as a result of the sad passing of our vendor. The car was his undeniable pride and joy, and experienced a cherished life being treated to fastidious and frequent maintenance regardless of whether it was used or not. Having been a Lotus enthusiast for many years, and looking for the right car for a while, our late vendor found this lovely GT in 2009 and enjoyed it on summer and weekend drives ever since.

The very rare Nightfall Blue paintwork presents really well, as do the original OZ wheels, and the interior is excellent with only the driver's bolster showing some wear as might be expected in a car of this age. It’s been regularly serviced, looked after and MOT’d by our vendor's local Lotus Specialist, SJ Sportscars of Crediton, Devon, including a recent full service including a new cambelt. The car's history file has been meticulously kept and is comprehensive from 2000 onwards, including the original Owners Handbook and Maintenance Record, old MOTs, tax discs and receipts/invoices for work undertaken with bills on file.

These gorgeous V8s are often overlooked in the world of Supercars yet have the looks, sound, performance, and rarity of exotics being offered at five times today's guide price. In lovely condition, with 'driver's mileage' and in a very stylish colour combination, this cherished example would undoubtedly enhance the life of any enthusiast or collector alike.