The Encor Series 1: Redefining British Craftsmanship in a 2025 Automotive Landscape
As someone who’s spent a decade navigating the intricate currents of the automotive world, from trackside analysis to dissecting the nuances of market trends, I’ve witnessed the ebb and flow of enthusiast passion. We’ve seen the rise of electric propulsion, the relentless march of autonomous features, and the ever-present demand for hyper-performance. Yet, amidst this technological maelstrom, a profound yearning persists for the visceral, the analogue, the truly crafted driving experience. It’s in this rarefied atmosphere that projects like the Encor Series 1 don’t just exist; they thrive, shining as beacons for purists and discerning collectors alike.
The year 2025 marks a pivotal moment. The automotive industry is caught between the momentum of electrification and a surging appreciation for the internal combustion engine’s artistry. In this landscape, a car like the Encor Series 1 Lotus Esprit restomod isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to preserving an icon while elevating it to a standard its original creators could only dream of. This isn’t merely a nostalgic nod; it’s a bold reimagining, a definitive answer to the question: what if the Lotus Esprit, one of Britain’s most charismatic and visually striking sports cars, were to be perfected for the modern era, without compromising its soul?
The Enduring Allure of the Lotus Esprit: A Legacy Reborn
Before we dive into the exquisite details of Encor’s creation, it’s crucial to understand the foundation upon which it’s built: the original Lotus Esprit. Conceived by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro and launched in 1976, the Series 1 Esprit was an instant design icon. Its sharp, angular lines, often dubbed “folded paper” design, were a stark departure from the voluptuous curves of its Italian contemporaries. It was a minimalist masterpiece, a pure wedge of design brilliance that looked futuristic yet timeless.
But beyond its stunning aesthetics, the Esprit embodied the Lotus philosophy: “simplify, then add lightness.” While early models weren’t known for their outright power, they were lauded for their exceptional handling, steering feel, and communicative chassis—traits that defined the quintessential British sports car. It was a driver’s car, pure and unadulterated, demanding skill and rewarding precision.
Over its remarkable 28-year production run, the Esprit evolved, gaining power, refinement, and even a V8 engine in its later iterations. Yet, for many aficionados, the purity of that original Giugiaro design, the unadulterated Series 1, holds a special reverence. It’s that raw, uncompromised essence that Encor, a bespoke automotive design firm from Chelmsford, England, has chosen to honor and enhance. This decision to focus on the original form, rather than the later, more complex iterations, speaks volumes about Encor’s understanding of automotive heritage and the deep value placed on foundational design. This strategic approach ensures the restomod retains its foundational appeal as a true high-performance classic car.
The Art of the Restomod: Encor’s Masterful Balance
The term “restomod” has, in recent years, ascended from a niche pursuit to a revered art form in the automotive world. It’s far more than simply restoring an old car; it’s about painstakingly preserving its historical integrity and aesthetic charm while seamlessly integrating cutting-edge engineering and modern creature comforts. The goal is to create a vehicle that offers the classic appeal of yesteryear with the reliability, performance, and safety standards expected of a contemporary luxury car.
Encor’s approach to the Series 1 is a masterclass in this delicate balance. They haven’t simply bolted on modern components; they’ve re-engineered the entire vehicle from the ground up, starting with laser-scanning the original Esprit. This digital blueprint allows for subtle, almost imperceptible design enhancements, ensuring that the visual updates are harmonious and respectful of Giugiaro’s original vision. This isn’t about extravagance or overt showmanship; it’s about thoughtful improvement. The design ethos leans into understated elegance, a powerful counterpoint to the increasingly aggressive styling of many modern supercars. For those seeking bespoke automotive design with genuine taste, the Encor Series 1 stands out.
What sets Encor apart is their commitment to retaining the Esprit’s innate character. In a market saturated with restomods chasing astronomical horsepower figures, Encor’s philosophy is one of intelligent evolution rather than brute force. They understand that a truly exceptional driving purist experience isn’t solely about raw output; it’s about the holistic interaction between driver, machine, and road. This artisanal car restoration isn’t just about polishing chrome; it’s about perfecting dynamics.
Engineering Prowess: A Heart of Modern V8 Muscle
At the core of the Encor Series 1 lies a donor Lotus Esprit V8 turbo chassis, specifically from the last-of-run models that ceased production in 2004. This provides a robust starting point, leveraging Lotus’s foundational engineering. However, what Encor does with it is nothing short of transformative. The original spine of the car is retained, a nod to its heritage, but it’s the powertrain and chassis enhancements that truly define this restomod.
The heart of the beast remains a 3.5-liter V8, but it’s a unit that has been entirely re-engineered. This is no mere rebuild; we’re talking about a comprehensive overhaul featuring forged pistons, thoroughly rebuilt turbochargers, and a host of internal strengthening modifications. The result is a robust, reliable, and incredibly eager engine delivering a very healthy 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. In 2025, when many high-performance cars are chasing 700, 800, or even 1000+ horsepower, 400 hp might seem modest on paper. But for the Encor Series 1, it’s perfectly calibrated. This power figure, combined with its astonishingly low curb weight, ensures exhilarating performance without overwhelming the driver or compromising the car’s inherent balance. It’s about usable power, delivered with precision and character.
Perhaps even more impressive, especially in today’s increasingly automated world, is Encor’s unwavering commitment to the manual gearbox. The five-speed transmission from the donor Esprit is not just kept; it’s gutted and meticulously rebuilt with a plethora of strengthening upgrades from the renowned specialist Quaife. This dedication to a tactile, involving manual transmission is a direct appeal to those who lament the fading art of gear shifting. It underscores Encor’s focus on the driver, offering an engaging, interactive experience that modern automatics, however quick, simply cannot replicate. For enthusiasts of manual transmission cars in 2025, this is a profound statement.
Lightness and Agility: The Carbon Fiber Advantage
Colin Chapman’s mantra of “add lightness” resonates deeply within the Encor Series 1. The original Esprit was already a relatively light car, but Encor takes this to an entirely new level through extensive use of carbon fiber bodywork. This exotic material, once reserved for Formula 1 and hypercars, is now expertly applied to the Esprit’s iconic shape, not only enhancing structural rigidity but dramatically reducing weight. The Series 1 tips the scales at a feathery 2600 pounds, a figure that rivals many modern Mazda MX-5s, despite housing a powerful V8.
This obsessive weight reduction is not just about bragging rights; it’s fundamental to the car’s dynamic character. Lighter cars accelerate faster, brake harder, and—crucially for an Esprit—handle with unparalleled agility. This lightweight construction amplifies the impact of every horsepower, making the 400 hp feel far more potent than the numbers suggest. It’s a testament to superior performance engineering solutions that prioritize efficiency and driver feedback.
Suspension & Dynamics: A Symphony of Compliance and Control
The chassis and suspension are where Encor truly elevates the Esprit experience. Encor chief engineer Will Ives’ philosophy here is particularly insightful and aligns perfectly with the purist driver’s desires. Speaking to the UK’s Autocar, Ives highlighted that the team wasn’t chasing the stiff, uncompromising ride of a modern McLaren rival. Instead, the objective was to blend greater suspension compliance with the Esprit’s already deft handling.
This approach is critical. Many restomods, in their quest for ultimate performance, err on the side of excessive stiffness, which can lead to a harsh ride and a disconnected feel, especially on real-world roads. Encor, by contrast, has tuned the suspension to absorb imperfections, allowing the car to breathe with the road while maintaining exceptional body control and precise steering feedback. This thoughtful calibration ensures that the Series 1 remains an exhilarating B-road weapon, capable of carving corners with surgical precision while offering a comfortable, engaging ride on longer journeys. It’s a nuanced understanding of dynamic handling, creating a chassis that truly works with the driver, not against them. Coupled with modern braking systems and cooling, the Encor Series 1 offers complete confidence on any drive.
The Cabin: A Bespoke Sanctuary of Tactile Luxury
Step inside the Encor Series 1, and you’re greeted by a cockpit that beautifully marries retro charm with contemporary luxury. The original Esprit’s minimalist, driver-focused layout is respected, but every surface, every switch, every detail has been meticulously upgraded. The star of the show for many will be the truly wonderful tartan interior, a quintessentially British touch that evokes classic sports car elegance while feeling fresh and vibrant. This isn’t a mass-produced interior; it’s a handcrafted sanctuary.
Beyond the aesthetics, the cabin benefits from subtle technological integration. While Encor avoids the ubiquitous large touchscreens that dominate modern car interiors, thoughtful upgrades like LED-equipped pop-up headlights (a delightful nod to the original) and improved climate control systems ensure comfort and usability without detracting from the analogue experience. The focus remains on tactile inputs: the weighting of the steering, the precise action of the gear lever, the feel of high-quality materials underhand. This attention to detail creates a premium automotive experience that justifies its exclusivity.
The Investment and The Experience: A $575K Statement in 2025
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the price. Starting at around $575,000, plus the cost of a donor Esprit, the Encor Series 1 is firmly positioned in the upper echelons of the luxury car market. This isn’t a car for everyone, nor is it intended to be. It’s a handcrafted, bespoke creation for the most discerning collectors and enthusiasts – individuals who understand the profound value of rarity, craftsmanship, and a truly singular driving experience.
In 2025, as the world pivots towards mass-produced electric vehicles, the demand for exclusive car ownership experiences and unique internal combustion engine vehicles is only intensifying. Vehicles like the Encor Series 1 are increasingly seen not just as passion projects but as sound luxury car investments. They represent a tangible piece of automotive art and engineering, offering a unique blend of heritage and cutting-edge performance that few other vehicles can match.
The target buyer isn’t looking for the fastest lap time at the Nürburgring or the latest infotainment system. They’re seeking an intimate connection with the machine, a sensory feast, and an object of exquisite beauty that stands apart. They are individuals who appreciate the nuances of British sports car heritage, the artistry of hand-built sports cars, and the unparalleled satisfaction of driving a vehicle designed purely for the joy of it. This isn’t just about owning a car; it’s about owning a piece of automotive history, redefined for the present and secured for the future.
Comparisons often arise with other revered restomod houses like Singer Vehicle Design or Eagle E-Types. While each occupies its own unique niche, Encor shares their philosophy of meticulous re-engineering and uncompromising quality. The Series 1 isn’t just a car; it’s a testament to what’s possible when passion, expertise, and a reverence for automotive icons converge. It represents the pinnacle of vehicle customization trends and automotive craftsmanship.
A Vision for the Future of Automotive Artistry
The Encor Series 1 is more than just a magnificent restomod; it’s a powerful statement about the future of classic car appreciation in an evolving automotive landscape. In 2025, where digital screens dominate dashboards and electric motors silently propel vehicles, the Encor Esprit stands as a defiant celebration of mechanical purity. It proves that there’s still a vibrant, thriving market for visceral driving experiences, for the symphony of a finely tuned V8, and for the undeniable satisfaction of rowing through a manual gearbox.
It’s a reminder that true automotive excellence isn’t just about raw statistics or technological novelty. It’s about the emotional connection, the heritage, and the unparalleled artistry that goes into creating something truly special. Encor has not just revived a legend; they have re-authored its legacy, ensuring that the spirit of the Lotus Esprit will continue to thrill and inspire for generations to come. This vehicle will undoubtedly find its place among the most cherished collector vehicles of 2025 and beyond.
Experience the Reimagined Legend.
Ready to delve deeper into the meticulous engineering and timeless design that defines the Encor Series 1? Explore the full spectrum of customization options and discover how this exceptional Lotus Esprit restomod redefines bespoke luxury and driving exhilaration. Visit the Encor website today and envision your own piece of automotive artistry.
