Datsun 240z, 1972

Datsun 240z, 1972

Datsun 240z, 1972

Lotus Esprit Concept

Lotus Esprit Concept, 1972

Lotus Esprit Concept, 1972

The Lotus Esprit was a sports car built by Lotus in the United Kingdom from 1976 to 2004. The silver Italdesign concept that eventually became the Esprit was unveiled at the Turin Motor Show in 1972, and was a development of a stretched Lotus Europa chassis. It was among the first of designer Giorgetto Giugiaro's polygonal "folded paper" designs. Originally, the name Kiwi was proposed, but in keeping with the 'E...' naming format of Lotus tradition, the name became Esprit.

Concept Car : 1972 Maserati Boomerang

Starred in Turin, Geneva, Paris, London, and Barcelona motor shows, then stayed in Spain until 1980 when “rediscovered” outside Benidorm night club. Restoration completed in 1990, then shown from Bagatelle to Pebble Beach. Excellent panel fit, very good paint with few visible flaws- some bubbling at corner under right taillight, small drip on right side vent behind door. Worn window felts, some curb rash on rear alloy wheels. Very good interior, with some scratches on dashboard and instrument binnacle. Some sun-fading on door panel leather.
Stunning Giugiaro designed showcar that influenced the Lotus Esprit, first VW Golf, and a host of others. Sold at Christie’s February 2002 Retromobile sale for $627,923. Seems like a healthy profit, but when viewed in Euros, about the same price in 2002 as now. Since ‘02, has reportedly seen $37k worth of mechanical and electrical work to bring to full roadworthy condition. More likely to be displayed than driven, however. A good investment on the seller’s side, a unique piece of automotive history for the buyer.