Lotus to Build its Own V8 for the Esprit

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Lotus originally planned on using a Toyota sourced V8 engine for the upcoming Esprit, but it looks like those plans may change. Lotus boss Dany Bahar recently told Autocar that the new Esprit will be powered by a Lotus designed V8 engine.

“We have done three engines for other manufacturers; why not do it ourselves?” he said. “The engine is the heart of a sports car; we should do our own product.”

Bahar stated that the decision to design its own V8 rather than using a Toyota V8 was fueled by customer feedback to a Toyota V8.

“In the mind of sports-car enthusiasts, Toyota power might not be good enough,” he said.

Of course the final decision will come down to cost. The decision is expected to be finalized at the end of January.

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Full Story: Autocar

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