VIN: Lotus Esprit Turbo Essex Commemorative chassis 10896
History of chassis 10896
As a result of an $8m two-year F1 sponsorship deal with the Essex Overseas Petroleum Company, Colin Chapman agreed to launch the new Esprit Turbo as a super high end special edition.
Initially, the new model was only available in Essex Commemorative specification. This included Monaco Blue paint with chrome and red graphics, a scarlet interior and some pricey options thrown in as standard. They included full leather upholstery, Sundym glass, air-conditioning and a state-of-the-art Panasonic roof-mounted stereo.
Essex boss, David Thieme, was the driving force behind the specification, but it was not to everyone’s taste. The expensive price also put potential buyers off.
Chassis 10896 was one of several pre-production Esprit Turbos assembled for press and promotional use. Finished to full Essex specification, it was registered MPW 75W.
Chassis 10896 most famously starred as cover car for January 1981’s edition of Road & Track magazine. The cover shot was taken at Hethel, however, the actual road test was conducted by Doug Nye using chassis 10858 (NCL 458V).
These photographs were taken outside the Carlton Tower Hotel in Cadogan Place, Belgravia, in early 1981.
Notable History
SCCFC20A5AHD10896
Esprit Turbo Essex Commemorative press car
01/1981 Road & Track cover car
Text copyright: Supercar Nostalgia
Photo copyright: Supercar Nostalgia
