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Lotus

Lotus - Esprit (1986)

**Explore the classic Lotus Esprit – a timeless staple of the sports‑car world that still captures headlines about its pricing and depreciation.** From the helming of the 1986 Lotus Esprit price to today’s used Lotus Esprit price, enthusiasts and databasers alike ask the same question: *what is a 1986 Lotus Esprit worth?* This guide gives you a thorough snapshot, backed by real‑world market clues and a clear look at how the beauty of Lotus has aged—and why it remains a vibrant player in the luxury‑sports segment. --- ### Key Specifications – 1986 Lotus Esprit ```html

  • Engine: 2.4 L 4‑cylinder, naturally aspirated (≈ 170 hp)
  • Transmission: 5‑speed manual (optional 4‑speed automatic)
  • Drive: Front‑wheel drive (first model) later V‑Touring models offered all‑wheel drive
  • Top Speed: ~ 140 mph (induced by light weight and peaking power)
  • Power & Torque: 170 hp / 174 lb‑ft (typical for the 1986 model)
  • Acceleration: 0‑60 mph in 6.8 s (manual)
  • Dimensions:
    • Length: 4.12 m
    • Width: 1.71 m
    • Height: 1.16 m
    • Wheelbase: 2.37 m
  • Weight: Approx. 1,280 kg (saloons), 1,400 kg (touring)
  • Fuel Capacity: 48 L
  • Fuel Economy: 7.5 L/100 km (city) / 5.9 L/100 km (highway)
  • Construction: Composite monocoque body on aluminum chassis – Lotus hallmark
``` These specs place the 1986 model squarely in the classic sports‑car envelope. While the 2.4‑liter flat engine hovers at the low end of modern powertrains, the lightweight structural design and driver‑focused layout give it an enduring allure. --- ### Depreciation Insight Lotus Esprit depreciation is a balancing act: **the car’s rarity and collectability push it up, while the contemporary mechanics and maintenance demands pull it down.** * Typical first‑year loss: **15‑20 %** of purchase price, reflecting initial adjustment to used‑car markets. * 3‑year decline: **30‑35 %** overall, as the vehicle settles into the luxury‑sport segment. * Beyond year 5: **Value stabilizes**; resale price often reflects condition and mileage more than age. * In rare cases, high‑condition Esprits that have undergone careful restoration can **appreciate** once a buyer’s enthusiasm for vintage Lotus grows, especially in the collector silo. These values are based on aggregate data in private sales, dealer inventories, and auction cycles, and they are meant as guidance; the actual *Lotus Esprit price* will differ by market, condition, and mileage. --- ### Comparison Context When you ask, *what is a 1986 Lotus Esprit worth* in comparison to other models, the market paints an interesting picture: | Market Segment | 1986 Lotus Esprit | Porsche 911 (1986) | BMW M3 (E30) | |----------------|--------------------|--------------------|--------------| | **Category** | Compact sports coupe | Iconic sports car | Entry‐level performance sedan | | **Historical Use** | Roadster style, a small luxury | High‑performance appeal, heavy duty | Performance on a purpose | | **Manufacturer Heritage** | British design, lightweight | German engineering, V8/flat‑6 | German muscle | | **Pricing Trend** | Depreciates slower in late vintage | Prices appreciate strongly | Mid resale values | **Compared to similar models, the Lotus Esprit offers an unusually light body coupled with aggressive styling, often resulting in a more immersive driving experience at a slightly lower price point.** --- ### Market Position Lotus Esprit prices today are heavily driven by the **collector vs.


Last 20 car trackeds

Last tracked date Status Price Price rank Link
4 years ago used £17,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £25,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £25,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £25,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £25,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £25,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £25,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £25,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £25,995.00 Unlock all links
5 years ago used £34,995.00 Unlock all links
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