ESPRIT 3.5 V8 & SPORT 350 - CHASSIS

In 1996, the Esprit V8 was introduced using Lotus's own 3.5 V8 (designated 918). This engine was an all-aluminium 90° DOHC V8 with a flatplane crank and two Garrett T25 turbochargers but no chargecooler. The engine was detuned from a potential 500bhp to 350bhp to help prevent gearbox damage. The Sport 350 was a special edition V8 offering improved AP brakes, stiffer springs and revised ECU. Styling changes saw a carbon fibre rear wing and interior modifications. The last Esprit V8 was sold in 2004.