1998
Lotus Esprit V8

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New 1998 Lotus Esprit V8
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Consumer reviews

100% of drivers recommend this car
5.0 / 5
Based on 4 reviews
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Comfort 4.5
Interior 4.2
Performance 4.7
Value 5.0
Exterior 5.0
Reliability 5.0

Most recent

  • By Esprit4Me from Raleigh, NC
    Owns this car
    September 26, 2020

    Unmatched Exotic value for the dollar

    I've always felt the Steven-styled era of the Esprit resulted in one of the most beautiful and iconic 2-seaters on the open road. Add to that the exclusivity of the vehicle (only 95 imported to the US in '98) and you end up with a great car that you will rarely ever see next to you in a parking lot. A bit snug inside (I'm 6'4") and the car lacks modern creature comforts, but the performance, handling and looks are all top-notch. Reliability improves the more you drive it - they don't like to sit. Drive it frequently and you will be rewarded. Parts are expensive and capable technicians are few and far between. There is a strong community online that can offer expertise and advice when you need it. Don't fear the transmission rumors... the UN1-027 is plenty stout if the car remains at stock power levels and you don't drive it like a Hammerhead. If you are going to up the power for tracking, there are upgraded gearsets that can be installed to improve strength. There were cylinder sleave issues in the '97 engines here in the US, but by now, those issues all would have presented themselves, so again, ignore the noise on that front. After owning the '98, the only thing I would change would've been to hold out for an '02-'04 simply for the cosmetic updates. Overall, I absolutely love the car and it has been everything I could've hoped for and more.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
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  • By Jay Dee from New England,U.S.
    Owns this car
    February 5, 2020

    A true exotic supercar!

    I looked for an Esprit V8 for a while. My patience was tested,until I found the right one. It's yellow on the outside,black interior with yellow piping. The previous owner installed a chip to get more power, and upgraded the suspension. Driving this car is a blast! Lots of people take my time by looking at it and asking questions . I'll be taking it to car shows for sure!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 4.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
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  • By Jeff from Ontario, Canada
    Owns this car
    May 1, 2016

    Dream Machine!!

    Loved this car forever and living up to all my expectations. It' fast, beautiful and a big time headturner, all for a modest cost. When I first bought it, I had to drive it home 550km(300miles), it was a most pleasurable trip (comfortable) no aches or pains! For a car almost 20yrs old, very tight, no rattles, instant response, the ultimate pleasure toy! Love to drive my affordable exotic!
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 4.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
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  • By Sports Car Enthusiast from massachuesetts
    Owns this car
    December 3, 2010

    Breath taking, Adrenaline rush.

    The 1998 lotus is a rare sports car that offers supercar performance for a very reasonable price. This car other than a Hi-Torque chip offered by Lotus is stock. It is a very low, lean machine, nice lines its hard to takes your eyes off its yellow body. The cockpit appointed in black leather everywhere in the With a nearly 50/50 balanced body weight front to rear It handles the roads like its rides on rails. The steering very responsive. It does have a racing duel plate clutch which if you never have driven before may take a bit to get used to. But it does transfer the 375 hp from the engine to the wheels very,very, fast. It is a 5 speed manual shifting though the gears a bit heavy or little clunky, my only complaint and one I can easily live and drive with. It accelerates like a bat out of___and screams like a banshee Its 3.5 liter V8 has a low, throaty sound and with twin turbos its power doesn't let up. It will go over 170mph. I would highly recommend this car to anyone that enjoys a great riding car. Be aware that you will be asked many questions about it by many strangers at traffic stops, gas stations, actually any where you go. If you get the chance to drive one ...enjoy : )
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
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FAQ

Is the 1998 Lotus Esprit V8 reliable?

The 1998 Lotus Esprit V8 has an average reliability rating of 5.0 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 1998 Lotus Esprit V8 owners.

Is the 1998 Lotus Esprit V8 a good vehicle?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 1998 Lotus Esprit V8. 100.0% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

5.0 / 5
Based on 4 reviews
  • Comfort: 4.5
  • Interior: 4.2
  • Performance: 4.7
  • Value: 5.0
  • Exterior: 5.0
  • Reliability: 5.0
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