Founded by (Anthony) Colin (Bruce) Chapman in 1952 (his full initials, ACBC still appear on the Lotus badge to this day), Lotus has always produced some of the most exciting and innovative cars ever built. Their principle focus has always been the combination of a lightweight, aerodynamic body coupled with a highly-tuned, small displacement engine and a chassis with phenomenal handling.

Perhaps most famous for its sub-aquatic appearance alongside Roger Moore's James Bond, in The Spy Who Loved Me, the Lotus Esprit has long been somewhat (yet wholly undeservedly) overlooked, in the Pantheon of Supercars. Imbued with phenomenal performance, that could make some of Italy's finest blush and breathtaking styling that commands attention, it was initially shown as a concept vehicle, based on the Lotus Europa, at the Turin Motor Show in 1972. Styled by the legendary designer of the Maserati Ghibli and BMW M1 (amongst many others), Giorgetto Giugaro, it began production in 1976 and was a perfect example of Chapman's winning lightweight/aerodynamic/great handling formula. The stunning wedge-shaped design was produced until 1987 and is considered the most iconic iteration of the Esprit.

This is a gorgeous, two-owner, California car with just 20,000 original miles, in excellent condition throughout. Finished in Calypso Red with Tan leather, it is truly breathtaking. Furthermore, it has just undergone a $10,000 overhaul, including engine, clutch and brakes. Consequently, it runs and drives as good as it looks.

Very much an up and coming classic, Esprit prices are on the rise, particularly the Giugaro models, making this low mileage, well-maintained example a tremendous find, both from a collectability and an investment standpoint.