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Lotus

Lotus - Esprit (1983)

The Lotus Esprit: A Classic Sports Car Revisited

When you read about the Lotus Esprit price, the image that often comes to mind is a sleek, low‑profile coupe from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The 1983 model, in particular, is celebrated for its unique design, lightweight construction, and potent engine options. While exact figures can vary with mileage, condition, and geographic market, potential buyers and enthusiasts alike often ask: what is a 1983 Lotus Esprit worth? And more generally, how do these iconic coupes hold up in today’s used car market?

Below is a concise but comprehensive overview of the 1983 Lotus Esprit, a realistic snapshot of its typical value trajectory, and a comparison with contemporary classic sports cars.

  • Model Year: 1983
  • Engine: 2.2‑liter (2,200 cc) 4‑cylitre (4×4) basic version, or optional 2.7‑liter (2,700 cc) twin‑turbocharged upgrade
  • Power: 190 hp to 260 hp (depending on engine variant)
  • Transmission: 5‑speed manual (often a Borg‑Warner 5‑speed) or optional 3‑speed automatic
  • Fuel Type: Petrol (gasoline)
  • Dimensions: Length—4,350 mm (171 inches), Width—1,660 mm (65 inches), Height—1,180 mm (46 inches)
  • Weight: 1,080 kg (2,382 lb) curb weight
  • Top Speed: Approximately 240 km/h (149 mph)—well‑below the early 1990s “high‑performance” bracket but still exhilarating
  • Acceleration (0–100 km/h): 5.8–6.5 s, depending on engine variant
  • Notable Features: L‑shaped aluminum cockpit, distinctive “G‑Screen” rear glossy glass panel, minimalist interior for weight savings

**Lotus Esprit depreciation** is an essential aspect for anyone evaluating a Lotus Esprit price, especially the 1983 model. Classic sports cars often experience a steeper early depreciation curve due to supply, demand, and the necessity for careful maintenance. Typically, a newly built Lotus Esprit would decline 15-20% in its first year, but because the 1983es have already aged out of their production run, the annual depreciation rate averages between 8% and 12% over the next decade, depending on factors such as mileage, provenance, and historical significance.

**Depreciation Insight Section:**
- **Year 0‑1:** 15-20% drop from original manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) due to oil crisis impacts and the launch of the new twin‑turbo version.
- **Year 2‑5:** 8-10% annual depreciation as the model establishes itself among connoisseurs.
- **Year 6‑10:** 4-6% if well‑maintained and restored; can plateau or modestly appreciate if the vehicle is rare or has a documentary record.
- **Year 10 & beyond:** Substantial gains for pristine examples, sometimes exceeding 20% appreciation relative to the current market baseline.

When you ask, Lotus Esprit 1983 price, you’ll find figures frequently cited ranging from $12,000 USD for well‑maintained vehicles with under 50,000 miles to $25,000 USD or more for pristine examples with full service history and restored originality. A rough gauge of these numbers aligns with typical used Lotus Esprit price levels for vehicles in this age bracket in the United States and European markets.

Comparison Context

Compared to similar models, the Lotus Esprit retains a distinct niche. For instance: