A stalwart of the Lotus lineup for roughly three decades, the Esprit transformed through the various series from a simple, lightweight four-cylinder-powered mid-engine sports car to a fire breathing V-8 speed machine.

One model, however, stands out as the most desirable Esprit of them all.

Built for the last model year, the Final Edition represents the ultimate development of this legendary Lotus.

Utilizing the turbocharged V-8 Series 4 platform, the performance envelope of the car was increased thanks to a number of modifications.

Adjustable Bilstein dampers were paired with Eibach springs and AP racing brakes allowing the Esprit to navigate winding roads with supreme precision.

Mounted midship, a 3.5-liter V-8 engine produces 350 horsepower while only weighing 220 kilograms (approximately 485 pounds), a feat that would delight the company’s founder Colin Chapman.

This combination results in a still-impressive low-four-second 0–60 time.

In addition, the exterior received a numb...