1979 Lotus Esprit

Black with JPS Livery with Tan/Black upholstery, Black carpeting, 2.0 liter Lotus 907 4 Cylinder Engine, 5-speed gearbox, 31,000 miles from new, #23 of only 200 Esprit Commemorative Editions manufactured for the world markets, Long term collector ownership.

The Lotus Esprit JPS Commemorative Edition is a striking and rare limited-edition variant of the Lotus Esprit Series 2. It was created to commemorate Team Lotus's Formula 1 World Championship success in 1978.

Unique features include a distinctive black and gold JPS livery, inspired by the colors of the Lotus F1 cars sponsored by John Player Special. Also included are enhanced special edition details with gold-accented alloy wheels, gold windscreen surrounds, World Champion side-stripes, and bespoke interior touches such as black leather with gold corduroy inserts and finally a commemorative numbered dash plaque. Mechanically, it shares the 1,973cc Lotus 907 DOHC engine with the standard S2 Esprit, meaning the performance remains similar, but the collectible value is significantly elevated.

Previously, this JPS Esprit enjoyed ownership in California and Texas, prior to being purchased in 2002 with 24,000 original miles and finding a new Lotus enthusiast home here in New York. While in this ownership, this JPS Esprit has only accumulated another 7,000 miles, thus 31,000 total mileage from new.

This Esprit has only been used sparingly and only in fair weather conditions. It has always been serviced properly. Most recent servicing has included a full service tune up, replacement of the timing belt, brake service, wheel bearings serviced, new radiator, new fuel pump, a new clutch assembly, the seats have been reupholstered and finally a new rear bumper has been installed.

This JPS Esprit comes with a large history file, factory books, factory jack as well as the following spare parts: New windscreen, New front bumper, Gold Window roof trim, Black rubber side strip, Full set of decals, Rear light units.

Key details
VIN / chassis: 79040151T

Offered by Autosport Designs, 203 West Hills Road, Huntington Station, NY 11746. Taxes, title and fees not included.

Photos courtesy of Autosport Designs.