The Encor Series 1: Reimagining the Lotus Esprit for the Discerning Driver of 2025
In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by electric powertrains, autonomous ambitions, and a relentless pursuit of digital integration, a distinct hunger persists for the visceral, the mechanical, and the truly bespoke. As we navigate 2025, the market for “restomod” vehicles has not merely matured; it has evolved into a sophisticated arena where engineering prowess meets artistic vision, delivering driving experiences that modern mass-produced supercars often struggle to replicate. Into this elevated space steps the Encor Series 1, a breathtaking reinterpretation of the iconic first-generation Lotus Esprit, a machine that doesn’t just look “rad” – it redefines what a classic sports car can be for the contemporary enthusiast.
Having immersed myself in the world of high-performance and luxury automobiles for over a decade, I’ve witnessed countless attempts to blend vintage charm with modern capabilities. Many fall short, either sacrificing authenticity for power or failing to integrate new technology seamlessly. The Encor Series 1, however, distinguishes itself. It’s more than a mere restoration with a big engine; it is a meticulously crafted, performance-engineered masterpiece that pays profound homage to Colin Chapman’s original philosophy while pushing the boundaries of what’s achievable in a lightweight, driver-focused package. This is not just an automobile; it’s an experience, a statement, and for the truly discerning, a shrewd investment in automotive artistry.
The Enduring Legacy of a Wedge Icon
To truly appreciate the Encor Series 1, one must first understand the foundation upon which it is built: the Lotus Esprit. Unveiled in 1975, the original Series 1 Esprit was a product of its time, yet paradoxically, ahead of it. Penned by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, its sharp, angular “wedge” design was an instant classic, a stark contrast to the organic curves prevalent in much of its competition. It famously captured the imagination of millions as James Bond’s submarine car in “The Spy Who Loved Me,” cementing its place in popular culture as a symbol of cutting-edge design and daring innovation.
Beyond the silver screen, the Esprit embodied Lotus’s core philosophy: “Simplify, then add lightness.” It was praised for its telepathic steering, unparalleled handling dynamics, and its ability to punch above its weight class. Over its nearly three-decade production run, the Esprit evolved significantly, culminating in the more powerful V8 turbo models. Yet, for all its brilliance, the Esprit, like many Lotuses of its era, was sometimes plagued by the perception of finicky reliability and build quality that occasionally lagged behind its European supercar rivals. This duality – brilliant engineering mixed with a touch of eccentricity – makes the Series 1 Esprit a truly compelling subject for a modern reimagining. It possesses a soul ripe for enhancement, offering an opportunity to perfect the breed without compromising its essence.
The Restomod Renaissance: A 2025 Market Perspective
The automotive market in 2025 finds itself at a fascinating crossroads. While manufacturers pour billions into autonomous electric vehicles, a parallel universe thrives where the demand for raw, analogue driving experiences has never been stronger. This is the domain of the restomod. Collectors and enthusiasts, increasingly disillusioned by numb steering, ubiquitous digital screens, and the ever-present electronic nannies of modern hypercars, are actively seeking vehicles that connect them directly to the road, the engine, and the mechanical symphony of propulsion.
The restomod movement has moved far beyond simple engine swaps and paint jobs. Today’s top-tier examples, like the Encor Series 1, represent an entirely new class of vehicle: “reimagined classics.” These are not mere museum pieces; they are performance-tuned, meticulously engineered machines designed to be driven, enjoyed, and in many cases, pushed to their limits. Brands like Singer Vehicle Design with their Porsche 911s, Eagle with their E-Type Jaguars, and now Encor with the Esprit, have cultivated a niche where bespoke craftsmanship, unparalleled performance upgrades, and meticulous attention to detail command prices that rival, and often exceed, new supercars.
From an investment standpoint in 2025, these limited-production, hand-built cars are proving to be exceptionally resilient assets. Their scarcity, the bespoke nature of their creation, and the enduring appeal of the platforms they are based on contribute to strong residual values and, in many cases, appreciation. For the discerning collector, investing in an Encor Series 1 isn’t just acquiring a car; it’s acquiring a piece of automotive art and engineering excellence that offers both an unparalleled driving experience and a tangible asset in a volatile market. The market clearly prioritizes authenticity and a true driver’s connection, making the Encor Esprit a prime example of what 2025’s savvy enthusiasts are seeking.
Encor’s Unwavering Philosophy: The Art of Refined Restraint
What truly sets the Encor Series 1 apart is its philosophy of “restraint” – a quality often overlooked in an era of automotive excess. While many restomods shout for attention with over-the-top styling cues and aggressively flared arches, Encor’s approach is far more nuanced. Their design ethos is about elevating the original Giugiaro lines, enhancing them subtly for modern performance and aesthetics without ever betraying the Esprit’s inherent character. This is the mark of truly confident design.
The journey begins with an exhaustive laser-scanning of an original Series 1 Esprit. This digital blueprint allows Encor’s engineers and designers to understand every curve, every angle, and every proportion. From this foundation, they embark on a process of subtle massaging: widening the track just enough to accommodate modern suspension and wheel configurations, slightly reprofiling aerodynamic elements for improved stability, and refining panel gaps to surgical precision. The result is a body that is instantly recognizable as an Esprit, yet undeniably more purposeful, more athletic, and aesthetically flawless.
The choice of carbon fiber for the entire bodywork is a testament to Encor’s commitment to both performance and quality. This isn’t merely for show; it’s a fundamental engineering decision that contributes significantly to the Series 1’s remarkable curb weight. Beyond the material, the details speak volumes: the pop-up headlights, a beloved Esprit quirk, are retained but now feature cutting-edge LED illumination, offering superior visibility without sacrificing retro charm. The staggered 17- and 18-inch wheels, wrapped in substantial performance rubber, represent a thoughtful compromise, prioritizing grip and ride quality over the thin, aesthetic-driven “rubber band” tires often found on oversized rims.
Inside, the cabin is a masterclass in blending heritage with bespoke luxury. While the original Esprit interiors were functional, Encor elevates the experience to a new level. The signature tartan upholstery, a nod to classic British sports cars, is beautifully integrated with modern materials and ergonomic refinements. Every switch, every dial, every piece of trim is meticulously crafted, ensuring a tactile and visually engaging environment that is both comfortable for long drives and focused for spirited excursions. This is a space designed for the driver, an intimate cockpit where form and function coexist in perfect harmony.
Engineering Excellence: Beneath the Carbon Skin
The beauty of the Encor Series 1 is far more than skin deep; its engineering is where the true transformation lies. Each build commences with a donor, last-of-the-run Esprit V8 turbo chassis, specifically chosen for its robust spine. While the core structure is retained, what gets bolted to it is an entirely new level of bespoke engineering, meticulously designed to eradicate the original’s weaknesses and amplify its strengths.
At the heart of the beast is a reworked 3.5-liter V8 engine. While the 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque might not grab headlines in an era of 1000+ hp hypercars, this is a conscious and intelligent choice. Encor isn’t chasing raw, unusable power; they’re pursuing accessible, visceral performance that can be exploited on winding backroads or the occasional track day. The engine itself is a marvel of internal upgrades, featuring forged pistons, strengthened connecting rods, and entirely rebuilt turbochargers with modern, more efficient compressor wheels and wastegates. This comprehensive overhaul ensures not only vastly improved performance but, critically for a classic car, dramatically enhanced reliability and longevity – qualities not always synonymous with the original Lotus Esprit.
Perhaps even more compelling for the purist is the transmission. In an age where manual gearboxes are rapidly becoming an endangered species, Encor doubles down on the analogue experience. The five-speed manual transmission from the donor car is not merely refurbished; it is gutted and rebuilt from the ground up with a litany of strengthening upgrades from the revered drivetrain specialists, Quaife. This includes reinforced gears, improved synchronizers, and a precision shift mechanism that promises crisp, engaging gear changes. The sensation of working through the gears, heel-and-toeing into a corner, and feeling that direct mechanical connection to the engine, is an increasingly rare luxury that Encor proudly champions.
The chassis and suspension represent another paradigm shift. The carbon fiber bodywork plays a crucial role in achieving an astonishing claimed curb weight of around 2600 pounds – roughly the weight of a modern Mazda MX-5 RF, but with significantly more power and a far more rigid structure. This incredible power-to-weight ratio ensures explosive acceleration and nimble handling. Chief engineer Will Ives’s philosophy on suspension tuning is particularly insightful. He emphatically states that the goal wasn’t to create a track-focused, stiff-as-a-board race car, but rather a vehicle that blends greater suspension compliance with the Esprit’s inherently deft handling. This means a sophisticated, multi-link setup with bespoke, adjustable coilovers, tuned to absorb road imperfections while maintaining exceptional body control and precise steering feedback. The result is a car that is immensely enjoyable on real-world roads, not just billiard-table smooth racetracks.
Finally, the braking system is commensurate with the vehicle’s elevated performance. Modern, multi-piston calipers gripping large, vented rotors ensure exceptional stopping power and fade resistance, providing the driver with immense confidence under all conditions. Every component, from the engine mounts to the exhaust system, has been scrutinized, upgraded, and integrated with a singular vision: to create a cohesive, high-performance machine that retains the soul of the Esprit while delivering the dynamics and reliability of a truly modern, bespoke sports car.
The Driving Proposition: An Unparalleled Visceral Experience
So, what does it feel like to drive the Encor Series 1? Based on its specifications and the expert philosophy underpinning its creation, I can confidently surmise it offers a driving experience that is as profound as it is exhilarating. Imagine settling into that bespoke tartan seat, the perfectly weighted steering wheel filling your hands. The V8 ignites with a purposeful growl, a blend of mechanical intent and turbo woosh that signals a readiness for action.
Engaging the Quaife-fortified five-speed manual shifter would be a tactile delight – a precise, reassuring click as you slot into first gear. The clutch bite, progressive and communicative. As you accelerate, the 400 horsepower, channeled through such a lightweight chassis, would feel explosive. This isn’t the brutal, traction-limited shove of a 1000hp hypercar, but a more nuanced, progressive surge that encourages you to fully exploit every gear. The turbochargers spool up quickly, delivering a broad, linear powerband that makes carving through corners an absolute joy.
The steering, unburdened by excessive electronic intervention, would communicate every nuance of the road surface directly to your fingertips. This would be a car that pivots with an almost telepathic ease, the carbon fiber body feeling utterly rigid and responsive. That carefully tuned suspension would absorb bumps without unsettling the chassis, allowing for incredible composure and grip through fast sweeps and tight hairpins alike. The brakes, strong and progressive, would inspire confidence, allowing you to dive deep into corners before confidently shedding speed.
This is a purist’s car, demanding engagement and rewarding skill. It’s not about isolating you from the experience but immersing you in it. It’s the symphony of the engine, the wind rushing past the razor-sharp A-pillars, the feel of the G-forces, the mechanical dance between human and machine. In a world increasingly sanitized by technology, the Encor Series 1 stands as a vibrant testament to the enduring thrill of a truly analogue, bespoke, and beautifully engineered driver’s car. It occupies a unique space, offering the exotic looks and heritage of a classic supercar combined with the performance, reliability, and precision of a cutting-edge modern machine.
The Price of Perfection: A Discerning Investment for 2025
The starting price tag of approximately $575,000, plus the cost of a suitable donor Esprit, places the Encor Series 1 firmly in the realm of bespoke luxury and collectible automotive art. This is a significant investment, undoubtedly, but one that is entirely justifiable when viewed through the lens of what this vehicle represents in 2025.
Consider the components of this value:
Unparalleled Craftsmanship: Each Series 1 is hand-built, a labor-intensive process requiring hundreds, if not thousands, of hours of skilled artistry and engineering.
Bespoke Engineering: From the redesigned powertrain with forged internals and Quaife gearbox to the custom suspension and carbon fiber body, every aspect is optimized and re-engineered for superior performance and reliability.
Exclusivity: Production numbers will undoubtedly be extremely limited, ensuring a level of exclusivity that few mass-produced vehicles, even supercars, can match.
Heritage Reimagined: It offers the iconic aesthetics and emotional connection of a revered classic, enhanced and perfected for the modern era.
Investment Potential: In the current 2025 market, exceptionally well-executed, limited-run restomods from reputable builders are proving to be strong assets, holding and often appreciating in value. This is not just a car; it’s a tangible asset that fulfills both an emotional desire and a financial strategy for sophisticated collectors.
The Encor Series 1 isn’t merely a mode of transportation; it’s a statement, a passion project, and a carefully considered acquisition for those who demand the absolute pinnacle of automotive excellence, who understand the true value of bespoke design, and who yearn for an uncompromised driving experience that transcends fleeting trends. It appeals to a collector who values the tangible qualities of engineering, design, and emotional connection above mere brand recognition.
Discover Your Reimagined Esprit
The Encor Series 1 Lotus Esprit restomod is more than a car; it’s a profound declaration of passion, a masterclass in automotive engineering, and a vibrant celebration of a timeless icon. For those who believe the ultimate driving experience lies in the harmonious blend of analog engagement and cutting-edge refinement, this reimagined Esprit stands as a beacon in the 2025 automotive landscape.
Are you ready to experience the perfect marriage of heritage and innovation, to command a machine that genuinely connects with your soul on every journey? Explore the possibilities, delve into the meticulous details, and envision yourself behind the wheel of this truly extraordinary vehicle. Visit Encor’s configurator today and begin to sculpt your own bespoke automotive dream.
