1991 Lotus Esprit SE, Great running / driving, Clean Carfax | Needs cosmetics

1991 Lotus Esprit SE Additional Info:

**A FULL SET OF IMAGES AND DRIVING VIDEO ARE AVAILABLE AT:

https://forestmotorcollective.com (copy and paste)

1991 Lotus Esprit SE — A Usable, Honest Example Ready to Enjoy

This Lotus Esprit SE is an honest, structurally sound car that runs and drives as it should, with cosmetic work remaining that the new owner can address progressively while enjoying the car along the way.

The 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder fires immediately without hesitation, every single time — cold starts included. The idle is smooth and settled. Oil pressure reads healthy both cold and hot, well within spec, and there are no overheating issues. Power delivery is smooth and linear. The gearbox shifts cleanly into every gear without grinding or jumping out, and the clutch operates correctly. The catalytic converter is present and intact. The undercarriage is free of damage and corrosion — the backbone chassis is solid, straight, and shows no signs of prior impact or repairs. There are no observed fluid leaks. Brakes do not seem to have full power assist, otherwise the brakes are operational.

The body is in genuinely good structural condition. Panel gaps are factory correct throughout, the fiberglass shows no cracking, and there are no signs of past accident damage or bodywork repairs. The paints clear coat has broken down and flaked in many areas. Glass appears to be original Triplexx all around, and the windscreen is free of chips or cracks. The wheels are the correct original factory OZ units, and fresh tires have been fitted.

Inside, the cabin is complete and all major systems are functional. All gauges are operational with one exception: the speedometer and odometer are currently not working. All lights function correctly, and the headlamps have been upgraded to higher-intensity LEDs. The interior needs some attention overall (see images) but everything is present and the bones are good. This is a cabin that rewards careful refurbishment rather than wholesale replacement.

One important note for prospective buyers: while the catalytic converter is present, it is unknown whether this vehicle will pass California smog requirements in its current state. As a result, this car is not available for sale to California residents. It is sold with a clean California title, and the Carfax report is clean with the car appearing to have lived in California from new.

This example offers a rare opportunity to enter that ownership experience at a realistic price point, with mostly only cosmetic improvements needed, you can drive it, enjoy it, and improve it on your own terms. Timing belt status is unknown. A fresh belt service is recommended before extended use.