A timeless automotive icon is experiencing a magnificent revival, as Encor breathes new life into the beloved Lotus Esprit. Fifty years after its initial debut, the Encor Series 1 stands as a testament to thoughtful modernization, meticulously preserving the original's distinctive character while addressing its historical shortcomings. This ambitious project aims to elevate the Esprit for enthusiasts who cherish its aesthetic and desire contemporary performance and reliability, provided the significant investment is not an impediment.
The transformation begins with a ground-up approach to materials and design. Encor’s engineers digitally scanned an authentic Esprit, then subtly refined its contours rather than radically altering them, ensuring the unmistakable wedge profile endures. The original two-piece fiberglass body has been replaced by a singular, autoclaved carbon-fiber shell, drastically reducing weight and enhancing structural integrity. Beyond aesthetics, functional upgrades include a wider stance to accommodate modern tires and improved cooling, along with pop-up headlights that now conceal advanced LED projectors. The redesigned wheels pay homage to classic Lotus motifs but are crafted using contemporary forged construction, contributing to a vehicle that appears more refined than overtly flashy.
Beneath the sleek carbon-fiber exterior, the Series 1 boasts a meticulously restored Lotus Esprit V8 chassis, re-engineered for optimal performance. The mid-mounted 3.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine has undergone a comprehensive overhaul, featuring forged internal components, upgraded turbochargers, and state-of-the-art fuel and cooling systems, all complemented by a stainless-steel exhaust. This powerhouse generates an impressive 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a targeted curb weight of under 2,650 pounds, the car promises exhilarating acceleration, with an estimated 0-62 mph time of approximately four seconds and a top speed approaching 175 mph. A refined five-speed manual gearbox, enhanced with Quaife hardware, addresses one of the original Esprit's persistent criticisms. Inside, the cockpit retains its iconic angled dashboard and tartan seat accents, while seamlessly integrating modern infotainment and climate control systems with an analog-inspired aesthetic. This exclusive restomod will be limited to just 50 units globally, with a starting price of around $540,000, excluding taxes, options, and the required donor vehicle. Deliveries are anticipated to commence in the second quarter of 2026, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive heritage, brilliantly revitalized for a new era.
This innovative blend of heritage and contemporary engineering showcases how dedication to craftsmanship and a forward-thinking approach can not only honor the past but also forge a path to an even more exciting future, proving that true excellence can always be reimagined and refined.
