The V8 engine for the Lotus Esprit was designed and manufactured by Lotus itself. This powerful and remarkably efficient 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, internally known as the Type 918, was a significant engineering achievement for the British marque.
Engine Development and Characteristics
Lotus meticulously developed this V8 engine to be a product of thoughtful design, prioritizing both high performance and critical attributes such as efficiency, compactness, and lightweight construction. The complete engine, including all its ancillaries, weighed in at less than 220 kilograms. This low weight contributed significantly to the Esprit V8's agile handling and impressive power-to-weight ratio, which were hallmarks of the car's dynamic performance.
This bespoke engine underscored Lotus's commitment to in-house engineering and innovation. Its development allowed the Lotus Esprit V8 to stand apart from many contemporary supercars that frequently relied on external engine suppliers, showcasing Lotus's comprehensive automotive design capabilities.
Lotus Esprit V8 Engine Specifications
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Lotus |
| Internal Name | Type 918 |
| Displacement | 3.5 Litres |
| Configuration | V8 |
| Induction | Twin-turbocharged |
| Weight | Less than 220 kg (with all ancillaries) |
| Design Focus | Efficient, Compact, Lightweight |
For more comprehensive details on the Lotus Esprit V8 and its historical significance, you can explore resources like the Lotus Esprit page on Wikipedia.
