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Lotus
Lotus Turbo
Lotus Turbo Esprit (1981)
Lotus Turbo Esprit (1981), in Norfolk Mustard (B36). The 1981 model introduced the production Turbo Esprit with the dry-sump 910 engine.
Norfolk Mustard (B36) · Gloss
Champagne Leather · Full Leather
This car
PaintNorfolk Mustard (B36) · Gloss
InteriorChampagne Leather · Full Leather
Production
Years produced1980–1987
Units made2,274
Where builtHethel, Norfolk, England
Body styles2-door Coupé
Engine
EngineLotus 910 Inline 4, 16v, Turbo
Displacement2,174 cc
Cylinders4
Valves16
AspirationGarrett T3 Turbocharger
Power210 bhp (213 PS) @ 6,250 rpm
Torque200 lb ft (271 Nm) @ 4,500 rpm
FuelPetrol (2x Dell'Orto DHLA 40 Carburettors)
Drivetrain & performance
Gearbox5-speed manual (Citroën C35)
Wheel driveRear-wheel drive (RWD)
LayoutMid-engine, longitudinal
Top speed152 mph (245 km/h)
0–62 mph5.7 seconds
0–60 mph5.5 seconds
¼ mile14.3 seconds @ 97 mph
Economy (combined)21 mpg (13.5 L/100 km)
Chassis & dimensions
Brakes — front10.5 in (267 mm) solid Discs
Brakes — rear10.5 in (267 mm) solid Discs (Inboard)
Wheels15-inch BBS alloy (7J front, 8J rear)
Tyres195/60 VR15 (front), 235/60 VR15 (rear)
SuspensionDouble wishbone front, multi-link rear
Kerb weight1,220 kg
Drag coefficient0.35 Cd
Length4,191 mm
Width1,854 mm
Height1,118 mm
Wheelbase2,438 mm
Pricing
Price new (1981)£20,900 · $47,984
Estimated value now£35,000 – £65,000
In dollars$40,000 – $75,000
+139% vs new, at the midpoint. Values as at 5 November 2026. Basis: UK dealer listings and 2026 auctions.
The 1981 model introduced the production Turbo Esprit with the dry-sump 910 engine.
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