The GT3 is one of the rarer versions of the Lotus’s iconic mid-engined Esprit, only 196 of which were produced between 1996 and 1999. This example was in a really bad way when it came to us, having been involved in a three-car accident that had resulted in severe damage on both sides and the front end. We duly replaced the driver’s door and patiently repaired each of the many damaged panels until the car was again exactly as designer Julian Thomson intended. Once perfect, the body was finished in a special shade of ‘Burnt Orange’ with added pearl effect, and a fresh set of original-style decals added. Immediately following completion, the now fully rejuvenated Lotus was displayed at the NEC Classic & Restoration Show, where it was much admired by all who saw it.
