Lotus Esprit IV (X180) photos

The fourth generation Lotus Esprit, internally codenamed X180, debuted in October 1987. British designer Peter Stevens thoroughly redesigned the composite body, replacing Giorgetto Giugiaro's sharp angular lines with smooth, aerodynamic curves that reduced the drag coefficient to 0.33 while adding Kevlar reinforcement to the roof and body structure for improved torsional rigidity. The interior was completely modernized with higher quality leather upholstery, an ergonomic instrument pod, and improved soundproofing. Under the skin, Lotus replaced the long-serving Citroën transaxle with a much stronger Renault UN1 five-speed manual transmission, accompanied by redesigned outboard rear brakes. The lineup initially consisted of the naturally aspirated 2.2-liter inline-four (172 hp) and the Turbo Esprit (215 hp). In 1989, Lotus unveiled the high-performance Esprit SE (Special Equipment), which introduced an innovative air-to-water intercooler known as the Lotus Chargecooler and a GM Delco Multi-Point EFI management system. The upgraded Type 910S engine generated 264 hp (and up to 280 hp on transient overboost), achieving a 0-60 mph sprint in just 4.7 seconds. Later developments included the lightweight, race-bred Sport 300 producing 302 hp. The X180 generation concluded production in 1993.