The Encor Series 1: A Sterling Revival of the Lotus Esprit V8 for the Discerning Collector
For the automotive connoisseur who has witnessed the proliferation of meticulously restored and upgraded Porsche 911s and finds themselves yearning for a more exotic proposition, a captivating new contender has emerged. The Encor Series 1 represents a breathtaking reinterpretation of the legendary Lotus Esprit, a machine that once embodied the pinnacle of British sports car innovation. This exclusive offering, eschewing the ubiquitous 911 restomod trend, promises a potent blend of classic design ethos and cutting-edge engineering, all wrapped in a package that is as visually arresting as it is dynamically compelling.
The core of the Encor Series 1’s allure lies in its potent heart: a meticulously rebuilt and enhanced 3.5-liter quad-cam, flat-plane-crank V-8 engine. This powerhouse, originally known as the Lotus Type 918, has been thoroughly disassembled and re-engineered. Forged pistons, upgraded fuel injectors, reconditioned turbocharger internals, a new electronic throttle body, and modernized fuel and cooling systems are just the beginning. A bespoke stainless-steel exhaust system ensures a sonorous symphony, while the legendary Lotus power output is unleashed with a formidable 400 horsepower. This performance is channeled through a robust five-speed manual transaxle, a unit originally sourced from Renault but now significantly reinforced and refined in collaboration with transmission specialists Quaife. Enhancements include a strengthened input shaft—addressing a known weak point that historically limited the Type 918’s output—revised gear ratios for improved acceleration, a helical limited-slip differential for superior traction, and a twin-plate clutch for a lighter, more engaging pedal feel.
This sophisticated powertrain is nestled within the iconic silhouette of the Lotus Esprit, yet with a crucial evolutionary leap. The Encor Series 1 masterfully fuses the distinctive design language of Giorgetto Giugiaro’s original 1976 four-cylinder Esprit with the mechanical underpinnings of the later, V8-powered models produced from 1998 onwards. The result is a vehicle that feels both timelessly familiar and strikingly contemporary. Encor’s approach involves taking a donor Esprit V8, carefully liberating its original glass-reinforced plastic body from the steel backbone chassis, and then meticulously crafting and fitting a new, lightweight carbon-fiber shell. This body, a stunning homage to Giugiaro’s sharp-edged, wedge-shaped concept, is the product of Encor’s design director, Dan Durrant, a former Lotus designer himself.
The process of creating the Encor Series 1 is far more intricate than a simple body swap. The steel backbone chassis of the donor car is stripped back to bare metal, then galvanized to eradicate the rust concerns often associated with older British automobiles, before being repainted to exacting standards. The suspension is upgraded to replicate the performance specifications of the Sport 350, the ultimate iteration of the Esprit V8. This includes the installation of new bushings throughout, ensuring a crisp and responsive feel. While many original Lotus components are retained, including the power steering system, Encor has engineered stronger rear hub carriers to rectify a chronic cracking issue that historically affected the Esprit V8. This dedication to detail ensures not only enhanced performance but also improved longevity and reliability, crucial aspects for any modern collectible supercar for sale.
Dan Durrant’s design philosophy for the Encor Series 1 is one of respectful evolution, not slavish replication. While the connection to Giugiaro’s original is undeniable, the carbon-fiber construction has allowed for a significant refinement of the form. The exterior boasts cleaner lines and a more minimalist aesthetic, moving closer to the purity of the 1972 concept. For instance, the prominent black band encircling the original Esprit’s midsection, a functional element to conceal the body panel joins, has been eliminated by the one-piece carbon-fiber construction, resulting in sleeker, uninterrupted bodysides.
Key design cues from the original are thoughtfully preserved and enhanced. The flat roofline, the trapezoidal windshield, the subtle Kamm tail, and the discreet front spoiler beneath the tapered nose are all present, meticulously reinterpreted. The front and rear fascias are notably cleaner and simpler, incorporating modern LED lighting for a contemporary touch. In a striking visual echo of the early four-cylinder models, the V8 engine is no longer concealed beneath a cover but is proudly displayed beneath a glass rear backlight, a feature that adds significant drama and highlights the engineering prowess within.
The wheels themselves were a subject of considerable design debate, as Durrant explains. “Inflate the wheel size too much, and you can completely unbalance the visuals of the car. It starts to look like a toy.” The chosen five-spoke forged billet wheels, measuring 17 inches at the front and 18 inches at the rear, are shod with generously sidewalled Bridgestone Potenza tires, a configuration similar to that found on the final Esprit V8 variants. These substantial wheels house high-performance AP Racing brakes, ensuring formidable stopping power to match the car’s acceleration. The wheel apertures are elegantly scaled-up versions of the original Esprit’s distinctive five-slot Wolfrace alloys, a subtle nod to its heritage.
Two small but significant design details serve as instant identifiers for Lotus aficionados: the cluster of six small vents at the base of the windshield and the distinctive, inset fuel filler cap on 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 elaborates. “We’ve made just small adjustments here and there to add elements that wouldn’t have been possible when the car was originally produced.” The inherent rigidity and dimensional accuracy of carbon fiber also enable Encor to achieve the tight shut lines and flush-mounted glass that are hallmarks of modern, high-end automotive design, an often-challenging feat with composite materials.
Beyond aesthetics, the carbon-fiber body brings significant advancements in structural integrity and occupant safety. Unlike the original Esprit V8, which featured a plywood firewall between the engine bay and passenger compartment, the Encor Series 1 incorporates a robust double-layer carbon-fiber firewall. This structure is integrated with the cant rails of the roof, which in turn contain tubular carbon-fiber elements running down the sides of the windshield to the dashboard and door structures. These elements are further connected across the top of the windshield, forming a formidable passenger safety cell. This enhanced rigidity contributes not only to safety but also to a more refined and precise driving experience, a key consideration for high-performance sports cars.
The interior of the Encor Series 1 masterfully balances retro charm with modern functionality. Drawing inspiration from the original Esprit, the cabin features a two-spoke steering wheel and a familiar center console architecture. However, these classic elements are now framed by premium materials and integrated with state-of-the-art technology. The instrument panel, a reimagined version of the original Esprit’s free-standing pod, now showcases a sophisticated digital display at its core, flanked by smaller touchscreens on wings angled towards the driver. The center console boasts a prominent portrait-format touchscreen, providing intuitive access to vehicle controls and infotainment.
From a driver’s perspective, the critical touchpoints—the relationship between the steering wheel, shifter, and pedals—remain faithfully replicated, ensuring the authentic Esprit driving sensation. The snug fit of the original Esprit, a characteristic born from its compact dimensions (8 inches lower than a contemporary Porsche 911, despite a 6.6-inch longer wheelbase), is preserved. This means headroom can be a consideration for taller individuals, a delightful challenge for enthusiasts who value a driver-focused cockpit. Encor’s decision to retain the original Lotus seat frames was not only for their lightweight properties but also because their compact dimensions accommodate the car’s cabin proportions better than most modern, larger seats. For those seeking a classic driving experience with modern comforts, the Lotus Esprit restoration by Encor presents an unparalleled opportunity.
William Ives, Managing Director of Encor, assures that despite its performance pedigree, the Series 1 will be remarkably user-friendly. The vehicle will be equipped with a comprehensive climate control system and a full infotainment suite, all designed and engineered by Skyships Automotive, Ives’ primary business. Skyships’ expertise in supplying bespoke audio and electronic systems to renowned low-volume manufacturers like Aston Martin, McLaren, and Pagani ensures that the Encor Series 1 benefits from cutting-edge technology and exceptional build quality. Furthermore, the notorious electrical gremlins of the past are banished; the entire electrical architecture of the Encor Series 1, including the new electronic throttle body, has been developed by Skyships to be state-of-the-art, offering a level of reliability and sophistication never before seen in an Esprit-based vehicle.
The vehicle showcased is the initial prototype, poised to undergo rigorous testing to fine-tune the suspension and calibrate all systems. Given its reduced weight compared to a production Esprit V8, the spring and shock rates will require careful adjustment. The performance benchmarks set by the original Esprit V8 are formidable: 0–60 mph in 4.1 seconds, 0–100 mph in 10.2 seconds, and a quarter-mile time of 12.7 seconds at 112 mph. With the Encor Series 1 expected to weigh approximately 400 pounds less and boast an additional 50 horsepower, its acceleration and overall performance figures are anticipated to surpass these already impressive numbers, with a claimed top speed of 175 mph. This makes the Encor Series 1 a serious contender in the exotic car market.
Encor plans a strictly limited production run of just 50 units over a two-year period, with manufacturing scheduled to commence in 2026. Importantly, the Encor Series 1 will be available in left-hand-drive configuration, catering to international markets. Given that nearly half of the roughly 1,400 Esprit V8s produced were exported to the United States, a healthy pool of donor vehicles exists for American enthusiasts looking to embark on this extraordinary automotive journey. The base price, subject to current exchange rates, hovers around $570,000, exclusive of shipping, taxes, and the cost of the donor Esprit V8. While this investment is substantial, it reflects the unparalleled engineering, bespoke craftsmanship, and exclusive nature of the Encor Series 1, positioning it as a compelling alternative to other high-end bespoke vehicles.
If you find yourself captivated by the prospect of owning a piece of automotive artistry that transcends the ordinary, a vehicle that marries iconic design with exhilarating performance and modern refinement, then the Encor Series 1 warrants your immediate attention. This is more than just a car; it’s a statement of discerning taste and a celebration of automotive passion. For those ready to explore this unparalleled opportunity, we invite you to connect with Encor or their authorized representatives to discuss the next steps in acquiring this exceptional reimagining of a legend.
