Lotus - Esprit (1998)

Discover the iconic Lotus Esprit – the 1998 model that redefined sporty elegance. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a classic spirited drive or looking up the Lotus Esprit price trends, this guide gives you a clear, concise snapshot of the market reality. It’s more than just a listing; it’s a snapshot of value, performance, and long‑term ownership that helps you answer the most crucial queries: what is a 1998 Lotus Esprit worth, how quickly does it lose value, and where it sits among its peers.

• Model Year: 1998
• Engine: 3.8‑liter, 6‑cylinder, 256 hp, 293 lb‑ft torque
• Transmission: 6‑speed manual (standard), optional 5‑speed automatic
• Drive Type: Rear‑wheel drive (RWD)
• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded
• Dimensions:
  • Wheelbase: 102.4 in (259.6 cm)
  • Length: 176.8 in (449 cm)
  • Width: 673 mm (26.5 in)
  • Height: 47.2 in (120 cm)
• Weight: 3,509 lb (1,594 kg) curb weight
• Body Style: 2‑door sports coupe
• Seating Capacity: 2 (driver + passenger)
• Performance:
  • 0–60 mph: 5.6 s
  • Top Speed: 158 mph (254 km/h)
• Interior Features: Aeron leather seats, carbon‑fiber trim, split‑shifter, ABS, traction control

Lotus Esprit depreciation is a key consideration for any prospective buyer. Historical data shows that new (or nearly new) Esprits typically lose about 15‑20% of their value in the first year. After that, the annual rate stabilizes at roughly 8‑12% per year as the vehicle ages. For a used fleet, depreciation curves can vary more widely, depending on mileage, condition, and market demand.

Key depreciation insights for the 1998 Lotus Esprit:

• Year 0‑1: 15‑20% drop
• Year 2‑5: 8‑10% annual decline
• Year 6‑10: 5‑7% depreciation trend slows as the car becomes more of a collectible
• Year 10+: Market value often stabilizes, with appreciation possible for well‑maintained examples in pristine condition

When you ask what is a 1998 Lotus Esprit worth, the answer largely hinges on mileage, maintenance history, and provenance. A well‑documented 1998 Esprit with low mileage and matched parts can normally fetch a price in the used Lotus Esprit price range that reflects not just the brand legacy but also the car’s historical significance as a mid‑90s performance icon.

Comparison to Similar Models

In the sports‑coupe segment, the 1998 Lotus Esprit sits next to other well‑known models such as:

• Chevrolet Corvette C5 – produced 1997‑2002; shares a live‑rear‑engine layout but offers a V8 powertrain
• Ford Mustang GT – built 1999‑2013, known for a V8 diesel engine and rear‑wheel drive
• BMW Z3 – manufactured 1996‑2002; a lightweight 3‑seat, RWD sports coupe with a 1.8‑L engine

While the Esprit’s 3.8‑L, 256‑hp engine may be less powerful than the performance counterparts, its weight‑balanced chassis and clean lines give it an uncompromising handling character that fans of the 90s Lotus brand still admire. In terms of depreciation, it typically holds its value slightly better due to the brand’s cult status, especially for models that remain in near‑original condition.

Market Position

---

Last 20 car trackeds