The Encor Series 1: A Modern Masterclass in Lotus Esprit Reimagination
For the discerning automotive enthusiast with an eye for the extraordinary and a deep well of appreciation for engineering artistry, the landscape of bespoke vehicles can often feel… familiar. The ubiquitous Porsche 911 restomods, while undeniably impressive in their execution and often a testament to meticulous craftsmanship, have become a dominant force, leaving many craving something truly unique. If the thought of another meticulously polished 911 variant stirs not excitement, but rather a sense of ennui, then allow me to introduce you to a vehicle that promises to reignite your passion for the automotive avant-garde: the Encor Series 1. This isn’t merely a revival; it’s a profound reimagining of the iconic Lotus Esprit, a machine that blends timeless Italian design with cutting-edge British engineering, all while offering performance figures that would make even its original creators blush.
As an industry professional with a decade immersed in the world of high-performance and collector vehicles, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of automotive customization. The Encor Series 1 stands apart. It’s a testament to what happens when heritage is respected, but not rigidly adhered to. It’s a vehicle designed for those who understand that true automotive luxury isn’t just about brand prestige; it’s about intelligent design, unparalleled performance, and an emotional connection that transcends the ordinary. Imagine a driving experience that evokes the raw, unfiltered thrill of the original Esprit, but executed with the precision, reliability, and advanced materials demanded by today’s most sophisticated automotive connoisseurs.
At its heart, the Encor Series 1 is a symphony of carefully curated components and inspired engineering. This remarkable machine takes the formidable foundation of a post-1998 Lotus Esprit V8 donor car and elevates it to an entirely new echelon. While the original Esprit V8 offered a potent V-8 powerplant, the Encor team has meticulously re-engineered and enhanced this celebrated engine. We’re talking about a quad-cam, flat-plane-crank V-8, now developing a formidable 400 horsepower. This isn’t just a number; it’s a promise of exhilarating acceleration and breathtaking responsiveness, delivered through a classic five-speed manual transmission. The power-to-weight ratio is nothing short of sensational. Encor has managed to keep the weight gain to a mere 300 pounds over a nimble Mazda Miata, a feat that speaks volumes about their dedication to lightweight construction and chassis optimization. This philosophy of purity and focus is a direct nod to the legendary Colin Chapman, Lotus founder, whose mantra of “Simplify, then add lightness” continues to resonate deeply within the automotive engineering community. The Encor Series 1 embodies this spirit, offering an Esprit experience that Chapman himself might have only dared to dream of.
The genesis of the Encor Series 1 lies in a brilliant fusion of eras. It seamlessly marries the robust hardware from the later Esprit V8 models with the unmistakable stylistic DNA of the original four-cylinder, Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed 1976 Esprit. This marriage is a masterclass in respecting heritage while embracing innovation. Encor’s process begins with a donor Esprit V8, from which the original glass-reinforced plastic body is carefully liberated from its steel backbone chassis. This chassis, the very skeleton of the car, is then meticulously restored. It’s stripped back to bare metal, galvanized to combat the rust that has historically been a concern for many classic British sports cars, and then meticulously repainted.
The suspension system receives a significant upgrade, mirroring the performance-oriented specification of the Sport 350, the ultimate iteration of the Esprit V8. New bushings are installed throughout, ensuring a crisp and precise feel. While the majority of components are genuine Lotus parts, including the hydraulically assisted power steering, Encor has developed bespoke, stronger rear hub carriers. This is a critical enhancement, addressing a known Achilles’ heel of the Esprit V8 – a chronic issue with cracking in the rear hubs that could compromise safety and performance. This attention to detail, this proactive problem-solving, is what truly defines the Encor Series 1 as a superior Lotus Esprit restomod and a compelling alternative to the often over-saturated 911 restomod market.
Rebuilt, Reinforced, and Ready for an Uncompromising Drive
The heart of the Encor Series 1’s performance pedigree lies within its meticulously rebuilt 3.5-liter Lotus V-8 engine, codenamed Type 918 during its development. This celebrated powerplant undergoes a complete strip-down and rebuild, emerging stronger and more potent than ever. Forged pistons, upgraded fuel injectors, new turbocharger internals, a state-of-the-art electronic throttle body, and modern fuel and cooling systems are integrated. A new, custom-fabricated stainless-steel exhaust system ensures not only enhanced performance but also a sound profile that is as intoxicating as the car’s aesthetics.
The five-speed transaxle, originally sourced by Lotus from Renault, has also been subjected to a rigorous enhancement program, undertaken in collaboration with the transmission specialists at Quaife. The result is a drivetrain that is not only more robust but also more engaging to operate. Key upgrades include a stronger input shaft, revised gear ratios for optimal performance, a helical limited-slip differential for superior traction and cornering stability, and a twin-plate clutch. The stronger input shaft is a crucial improvement, addressing a historical weak point that had previously forced Lotus engineers to detune the Type 918’s output from its potential 500 horsepower down to 350 horsepower at the Esprit V8’s launch. The twin-plate clutch not only enhances durability but also significantly lightens the pedal feel, contributing to a more user-friendly and enjoyable driving experience. For enthusiasts seeking a performance car restoration that prioritizes both heritage and modern engineering, the Encor Series 1 presents an unparalleled proposition.
Honoring Giugiaro’s Vision Without Being Bound by the Past
The exterior design of the Encor Series 1 is a profound tribute to the original Esprit’s aesthetic, yet it transcends mere replication. While the V8 model saw evolutionary design changes, with styling input from luminaries like Peter Stevens (designer of the McLaren F1) and Julian Thomson (instrumental in the Lotus Elise’s development), the Encor Series 1 deliberately harks back to the radical, Giugiaro-designed concept that first captivated the automotive world at the 1972 Turin Show.
Dan Durrant, Encor’s design director and a former Lotus designer himself, has masterfully distilled Giugiaro’s sharp-edged, wedge-shaped ethos. “We’re not handcuffed by the original,” Durrant emphasizes, “but we’re completely inspired by it.” The result is a carbon-fiber body that is not only visually stunning but also functionally superior. The use of carbon fiber has allowed Durrant to refine and simplify the car’s overall form, bringing it closer to Giugiaro’s original vision. The iconic black stripe that once encircled the original Esprit’s midsection, a necessity to conceal the body panel join lines, is now superfluous. The Encor car’s seamless, one-piece carbon-fiber construction enables cleaner bodysides and a more integrated aesthetic for the front and rear fascias.
Durrant’s design cleverly retains key elements of the original, such as the flat roofline and the trapezoidal windshield, a departure from the subtle crowning introduced in later iterations. The subtle Kamm tail and a discrete front spoiler beneath the tapered nose are also faithfully represented. Modern LED running lights at the front and similarly styled taillights at the rear provide a contemporary touch without detracting from the classic silhouette. A particularly evocative detail is the visible engine, showcased beneath a glass backlight – a deliberate callback to the four-cylinder Esprit, a stark contrast to the disguised engine bay of the production Esprit V8. This visual continuity is crucial for those who appreciate the historical narrative of the Esprit.
The choice of wheels is also a carefully considered detail. The 17-inch front and 18-inch rear forged billet wheels, clad in generous Bridgestone Potenza tires, echo the specifications of the final Esprit V8 models. Durrant notes, “Wheels were a real topic of discussion. Inflate the wheel size too much, and you can completely unbalance the visuals of the car. It starts to look like a toy.” Behind these exquisite wheels, AP Racing brakes provide formidable stopping power.
Two subtle yet unmistakable design cues instantly connect the Encor Series 1 to its lineage for any Lotus aficionado: the six small vents at the base of the windshield and the distinctive fuel filler cap inset into the left C-pillar. “The silhouette and the key shapes on the car are very, very close to the Giugiaro original, but refined and honed in every way,” Durrant explains. “We’ve made just small adjustments here and there to add elements that wouldn’t have been possible when the car was originally produced. And because carbon fiber is such a robust and dimensionally accurate material, it means that we can do the things that customers want, like nice tight shut gaps and flush mounted glass.” This level of detail and commitment to precision is a hallmark of exceptional sports car restoration and bespoke automotive manufacturing.
The benefits of the new carbon-fiber body extend beyond aesthetics. It significantly enhances the car’s structural rigidity and safety. Where the production Esprit V8 utilized a plywood firewall – a startling detail for many – the Encor Series 1 features a robust double-layer carbon-fiber firewall. This integrates with the cant rails in the roof, which incorporate tubular carbon-fiber elements running down the sides of the windshield to the dashboard and door structures, and are also linked across the top of the windshield, forming a comprehensive passenger safety cell. This is a significant safety advancement, offering peace of mind for the driver and passengers.
A Retro Cabin Infused with Modern Technology
The interior of the Encor Series 1 masterfully balances retro charm with contemporary functionality. The design pays homage to the original Esprit, most notably in the two-spoke steering wheel and the elegant architecture of the center console. However, these classic forms are brought to life with premium materials and cutting-edge technology. The instrument panel is a prime example of this harmonious integration. The original Esprit’s free-standing, wraparound pod is reimagined as a sleek, light metal structure housing a state-of-the-art digital display at its center, flanked by smaller touchscreens angled towards the driver. A portrait-format touchscreen adorns the center console, providing intuitive control over various functions.
From the driver’s perspective, the ergonomics of the Encor Series 1 remain remarkably faithful to the original Esprit. The relationship between the steering wheel, shifter, and pedals has been meticulously preserved, ensuring that familiar tactile connection remains. The original Esprit, despite its relatively compact exterior dimensions, offered a surprisingly spacious wheelbase for its era, longer than a contemporary Porsche 911. However, its low-slung profile meant headroom was at a premium for taller individuals. Encor has retained the original Lotus seat frames, not only for their lightweight properties but also because many modern seats are simply too tall to accommodate the Esprit’s confined cabin.
Despite the inherent intimacy of the cockpit, Encor Managing Director William Ives assures that the Encor Series 1 is designed for everyday usability. Air conditioning is standard, as is a comprehensive infotainment system. This system, along with the entire electrical architecture of the vehicle, has been designed and engineered by Ives’ primary business, Skyships Automotive. This company is renowned for supplying bespoke audio and electronic solutions to some of the world’s most exclusive low-volume automakers, including Aston Martin, McLaren, and Pagani. Consequently, any lingering anxieties about the notoriously temperamental Lucas electrics of yesteryear can be definitively put to rest.
The vehicle showcased is the first prototype, and it is poised to undergo rigorous testing to fine-tune the suspension settings. Given its reduced weight compared to a production-spec Esprit V8, spring and shock rates will require careful calibration, alongside comprehensive final systems checks. The production Esprit V8 achieved a 0–60 mph sprint in a brisk 4.1 seconds and hit 100 mph in 10.2 seconds, covering the quarter-mile in 12.7 seconds at 112 mph. With the Encor Series 1 expected to be approximately 400 pounds lighter and boasting an additional 50 horsepower, its performance figures are anticipated to surpass these already impressive benchmarks, with a claimed top speed of 175 mph. For collectors and enthusiasts seeking a classic car upgrade that delivers on both heritage and performance, the Encor Series 1 represents a compelling investment.
Encor plans to produce a limited run of just 50 vehicles over a two-year period, with production slated to commence in 2026. Crucially for the North American market, the Encor Series 1 will be available in a left-hand-drive configuration. Given that nearly half of the approximately 1,400 Esprit V8s produced were exported to the United States, a healthy pool of donor cars exists for American enthusiasts to draw from. The base price, at current exchange rates, is approximately $570,000, excluding shipping, taxes, and the cost of the donor Esprit V8. It is undeniably an investment, but one that stands in stark contrast to the often sky-high prices of comparably engineered Porsche 911 custom builds or other ultra-exclusive supercar restorations.
Embark on Your Bespoke Automotive Journey
The Encor Series 1 isn’t just a car; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that true automotive passion lies in celebrating the past while fearlessly embracing the future. If you’re searching for a vehicle that transcends the ordinary, a machine that blends breathtaking aesthetics with exhilarating performance and the finest engineering, then your search may well be over.
Discover the Encor Series 1 and redefine your automotive aspirations. Contact us today to explore the possibilities of owning a truly unique piece of automotive art.
