The 1998 Lotus Esprit embodies the essence of ’90s supercar engineering — a mid-engine, turbocharged masterpiece with precision handling and timeless wedge styling. Purpose-built for performance, it remains an icon of lightweight, driver-focused design.
Overview
SBX Cars is proud to offer for sale this 1998 Lotus Esprit V8 showing 34,226 kilometers (21,267 miles) at the time of this cataloging. Finished in New Aluminum Metallic over a red leather interior, this Series 4 Esprit is now offered by Gentry Lane Automobiles in Toronto with owner’s booklets, service records, a clean CARFAX report, and Ontario registration.
Manufactured at Lotus’ U.K. assembly facility beginning in 1976, the wedge-shaped, low-slung Esprit was engineered to effortlessly slice through the air. The ensuing years and decades brought enhancements to its chassis, technology, and performance credentials. Notably, starting in 1996, the car received a significant power bump courtesy of an in-house-developed, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V8.
A magazine ad for the 1998 Esprit said, “Britain’s superlative super car delivers unbridled power, stunning good looks, and outstanding performance.” The Esprit V8 was a supercar that confidently went head-to-head with the Acura NSX, Ferrari F355, and Porsche 911 Carrera. Best of all, its performance credentials matched its sharp silhouette: the car’s 43/57 weight distribution, tuned suspension, and precise steering give it an optimal sense of balance in any driving situation.
This low-mileage Esprit is an instantly-recognizable classic that offers accident-free ownership history, service records, an upgraded audio system, and a removable roof panel for exhilarating open-air motoring. Rest assured, this Esprit will encourage you to push your driving limits.
Specifications & Options
Exterior
- New Aluminum Metallic paint (Code B35)
- Pop-up quad headlights
- Fog lamps
- Removable roof panel
- Body-color
- Fender arch moldings
- Scalloped rocker panels
- Rear spoiler
- Dual exhaust outlets
- OZ Racing six-spoke aluminum wheels
- 17-inch front
- 18-inch rear
- Toyo Proxes Sport tires
- 2018 & 2019 manufacture dates
- 235/40 front
- 285/35 rear
Interior
- Red leather upholstery (Trim XX17)
- Bucket seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Rack-and-pinion steering
- Power windows
- Power door locks
- Air conditioning
- Alpine CDE-7828 AM/FM/CD audio system
- 35-watt
- Embroidered floor mats
- VDO-branded gauges
- 300-km/h speedometer
- 8,000-rpm tachometer
- Fuel level
- Coolant temperature
Mechanical
- Type 918 twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V8
- Mid-mounted
- Aluminum 90-degree DOHC
- Four valves per cylinder
- Flat plane crankshaft
- Dual Garrett T25/60 turbochargers
- Rated at 350 horsepower
- Rated at 295 lb-ft of torque
- Five-speed manual transaxle
- Double-wishbone suspension
- Anti-roll bars
- Four-wheel disc brakes
- Brembo-branded front calipers
Service History
An emissions inspection was completed in 2015 by Kingscross Hyundai in Scarborough, Ontario.
Additional highlights of known historic maintenance are as follows:
The car was maintained by Birkshire Automobiles in Thornhill, Ontario in 2012 when it received an oil change, a four-wheel alignment, and replacement of the left rear output shaft seal. In 2010, the same facility performed an oil change, replacement of the EGR pipe and gasket, and an overhaul of both turbochargers including new gaskets. In 2007, the car received a transmission oil change and a brake fluid flush.
Condition & Reports
The CARFAX report classifies this as an accident-free and damage-free vehicle. The initial entry took place in January 2000 in Vancouver, British Columbia. The car was relocated to Ontario in 2003 and has remained in that area since that time. It passed an Ontario safety standards inspection in June 2025.
Detailed photos have been provided by the selling dealer including images of the exterior, interior, engine compartment, and underbody. In addition, prospective bidders are encouraged to view the video which includes an exterior walk-around, an interior overview, a start-up, and a drive-by.
This 1998 Lotus Esprit is said to be free of substantial imperfections.
Included in the Sale
- Owner’s booklets
- Service records
Summary
When it comes to exotic appeal and rarity, this Esprit V8 checks a lot of boxes given its low mileage, unmodified equipment and readily available service history. The Esprit saw a production run of only 10,675 units across its entire lifespan. It has now become a classic, yet it still delivers a driving experience that will keep you at the edge of your seat. The Esprit is like a sharp scalpel ready to slice up a twisty mountain road near you.
As part of the consignment process, SBX Cars requests a range of information from the seller pertaining to the subject of their offering. The auction listing description therefore is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. However, it is the responsibility of a potential buyer to satisfy themself as to the accuracy of the auction listing description. This includes conducting an in-person inspection, which may be arranged between the buyer and seller, as well as verifying the condition, authenticity, value, and title before committing to bid or buy. Please see our Terms of Service for full details.
Buyer's Premium
The Buyer’s Premium will be added to the final sale price and is payable directly to SBX Cars. Sales tax applicability will be determined by buyer's location.
- Buyer's premium: 5%
Bid History
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