In 1980 the first factory turbocharged Esprit was launched.
Initially, this was another special edition model commemorating
F1 ties and reflecting current sponsorship, this time in the blue, red and chrome
livery of Essex Petroleum, and is therefore known as the Essex Esprit.
The new turbocharged dry-sump type 910 engine produced 210 hp.
0-60 mph could be achieved in 6.1 seconds,
with a top speed of 150 mph (240 km/h).
Only 100 Essex Esprits were built, interspersed and followed by a number of
Only 100 Essex Esprits were built, interspersed and followed by a number of
non Essex-liveried but otherwise identical specification dry-sump turbo cars.
The Essex cars introduced a Giugiaro-designed aerodynamic body kit with
The Essex cars introduced a Giugiaro-designed aerodynamic body kit with
a rear lip spoiler, prominent louvered rear hatch, more substantial bumpers.
Internally, scarlet leather, combined with a roof-mounted Panasonic stereo.
Two Essex-spec Turbo Esprits - one in white and the other in copper -
were featured in the 1981 James Bond film For Your Eyes Only.
(wikipedia)
Internally, scarlet leather, combined with a roof-mounted Panasonic stereo.
Two Essex-spec Turbo Esprits - one in white and the other in copper -
were featured in the 1981 James Bond film For Your Eyes Only.
(wikipedia)
Two Essex-spec Turbo Esprits - one in white and the other in copper -
were featured in the 1981 James Bond film For Your Eyes Only.
(Photos from autowp.ru, commons.wikimedia.org & flickr.com)