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The timeless 1979 Lotus Eclat – an icon of lightweight performance and elegant design – continues to captivate enthusiasts in today’s automotive market. Though the model itself hails from the late 1970s, its aura of exclusivity and the thrill of its near-synonymous engineering still command attention. For those curious about the Lotus Eclat price and how it relates to current market dynamics, this overview breaks down key facts, depreciation insights, and contemporary value comparisons without overstepping into speculative pricing.

When you open the doors on a 1979 Lotus Eclat, you aren’t just seeing a vehicle; you’re stepping into a piece of motorsport heritage. The classic Lotus car offers a lightweight chassis, a finely tuned chassis geometry, and a timeless aesthetic that carries a unique timestamp in automotive design. Let’s dive into the specs that defined the original release, and see how those same qualities influence value today.

• Engine: 2.4 L (2381 cc) 4-cylinder 12-valve, side‑by‑side means, producing approximately 150 hp (varies by market) and 170 lb‑ft of torque.
• Transmission: 5‑speed or 4‑speed sliding‑shift manual gearbox, standard in the base model.
• Fuel Type: Premium gasoline or high‑octane blends.
• Dimensions:
• Length: 150.4 inches (3814 mm)
• Width: 70.7 inches (1795 mm)
• Height: 48.4 inches (1230 mm)
• Wheelbase: 94.1 inches (2393 mm)
• Weight: Approximately 1748 lbs (nearly 79% lighter than a comparable mid‑century sports car).
• Drivetrain: Front‑engine, rear‑wheel drive.
• Suspension: MacPherson strut front, multi‑link rear.
• Brakes: Disc brakes front and rear, with optional upgraded calipers.
• Interior: Sport seats, minimalistic dashboard, leather upholstery optional.

Beyond the raw numbers, the Lotus Eclat depreciation profile tells a compelling story of the car’s financial allure. Classic European sports cars typically lose 15‑20% of their value within the first year of ownership, primarily due to the high premiums buyers pay for rarity and historical significance. After that initial drop, the depreciation rate tends to moderating to roughly 5‑10% annually for the next five years, assuming careful maintenance, regular servicing, and minimal cosmetic wear. When the vehicle approaches the 10‑year mark, the price decline may slow further, as many of the mechanicals lock into a “classic” reference point, creating a stable niche market.

This depreciation trajectory aligns with the Lotus Eclat 1979 price and used Lotus Eclat price trends seen across multiple auction sites, enthusiast clubs, and back‑yard swaps. Owners offering a well‑documented 1979 unit after 10 years of stewardship often find buyers within the $12,000–$18,000 range, but those with pristine OEM part preservation and lap records can push toward the $20,000 threshold. The ballpark figures emphasize how the car’s value depends on condition, provenance, mileage, and the specific what is a 1979 Lotus Eclat worth scenario envisioned by potential buyers.

Comparison Context

When evaluated against contemporaneous models, the Lotus Eclat demonstrates a distinct balance between affordability and performance. Take the 1979 Lotus Esprit, for instance: while the Esprit carries a similar station‑wagon architecture, its heavier bodyshell and more complex powertrain typically command higher resale values ($15,000‑$25,000 for comparable conditions). In contrast, the lighter Eclat often sees resale figures fall into the $12,000‑$18,000 range under equivalent condition, positioning it as a more accessible entry point into the Lotus realm. Similarly, within the broader luxury sports car segment, the Eclat is prized by collectors who appreciate the “raunchy” engineering signature and the direct, engaging drive dynamics.

Market Position Statement

In today’s enthusiast ecosystem, the Lotus Eclat shines as a <

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Last 20 car trackeds

Last tracked date	Status	Price	Price rank	Link
2 years ago	used	£15,000.00		Unlock all links
2 years ago	used	£15,000.00		Unlock all links