Description
** For Sale: Refurbished Lotus Esprit S2. 2 - A True Classic**
I am offering my recently refurbished Lotus Esprit S2. 2 for sale. I purchased this remarkable car two years ago from a gentleman who relocated it from the UK to France in the 1990s with the dream of restoration. Unfortunately, he never got around to it, but he kept the car stored in a dark, dry garage, preserving its integrity.
Over the past two years, I have undertaken a comprehensive mechanical rebuild without removing the galvanised chassis, as the bodywork was in excellent condition, showing only light wear. The 2. 2 engine and clutch were expertly rebuilt by Agra Engineering, and I have replaced all fuel lines, tanks, brakes, cylinders, and other essential components to ensure this car runs like new.
The interior boasts a newly fitted headlining and carpets, while the original seats and brown mouse fur have been meticulously recoloured and restored by Ramsay Coach Trimming, preserving as much of the original interior as possible. Additionally, I have installed a modern Bluetooth-capable Blaupunkt radio for your listening pleasure.
I have invested over £40, 000 in the restoration process, not including the initial purchase price. This investment reflects the car's outstanding condition today. The VIN number is unique, corresponding to press cars sent to the USA, and the Certificate of Provenance confirms it as the only S2. 2 ordered in a striking black and gold specification with cream and brown interior.
The bodywork has been resprayed on most panels, except for the front and upper doors, to maintain the original vinyls, which are in great condition. All rubber seals and body trim have been replaced or repainted. While there are minor marks upon close inspection—typical for a classic car—I believe in preserving originality wherever possible.
I am reluctantly selling the car to pursue my passion for an Alfa Montreal restoration. The fortunate new owner will acquire one of the cleanest and most original examples available, complete with the coveted OPW656W registration associated with the Bond films. Apart from it's veiled relationship with the latter two James Bond Esprit. White Turbo OPW 654W and Metallic Copper Turbo OPW 678W it also has a relationship with Elite OPW 655W and Eclat OPW 657W (Press Road Test Vehicles) together with White Turbos OPW 666W & OPW 667W all vehicles that I believe were supplied by Lotus to the Motoring Press for their Test Reports and Review Articles.
Since the completion of the restoration, the car has covered just 2, 000 miles to run in the engine and other components. The odometer currently reads approximately 75, 000 miles. It has recently undergone a pre-sale service.
Receipts for all £40, 000 spent on the restoration are available, primarily from South West Lotus, SJsportcars, and Edin Sportscar.
** A Brief History:**
The S1 Esprit debuted in 1976, but following production halts, the S2 launched in 1978, with the exceptionally rare S2. 2 introduced in May 1980 as a transitional model between the S2 and S3. The S2. 2 featured significant improvements, including new intake and cooling ducts, 15" Speedline alloy wheels, and a more practical design with a rear-mounted battery and improved access to the engine cover.
The S2. 2 is powered by a 2. 2-litre Type 912 engine, delivering 160bhp with enhanced torque, making it a true performance machine with 0-60 mph in around seven seconds.
