M5 engine could power next Lotus Esprit

Sauceboy01 submitted on 10/03/2006 Official AutoSpies Timestamp: 1:05 PM
from: www.autospies.com

Tags: Lotus, Esprit

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M5 engine could power next Lotus Esprit

The next Lotus Esprit is tipped to use one of Autocar’s favourite engines of recent years: BMW’s firecracker V8 from the recently departed M5 saloon.

Senior-placed sources have confirmed that Hethel is considering the 4.9-litre lump from the outgoing E39 5-series. Lotus had previously been linked with Toyota, following the deal to supply the Celica engine for the latest Elise 111R.

In BMW’s application, the V8 developed 400bhp and 369lb ft of torque. Lotus is considering a forced induction system to raise outputs further and has proven experience from turbocharging the previous Esprit.

Following the classic supercar formula, the V8 will be mounted longitudinally amidships in the Esprit’s extruded aluminium chassis, driving the rear wheels. The car’s modern, wedgy shape was first revealed in our scoop on 3 February.

The current Esprit ceased production this spring and its successor – tipped to carry a different name – will be launched in 2006. Priced at around £75,000, it will rival supercars such as the Porsche 911 Turbo, Ferrari 360 Modena and Lamborghini Gallardo.

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chewy - 10/3/2006 11:48:56 PMView My AgentSpace

+1 Boost

I thought that they would have used the V10, but better than the 360 hp 4.8 liter BMW V8 that was rumored, that would have been weak for the very expensive Lotus.

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DarkOneForce - 10/4/2006 7:47:08 AM

+1 Boost

The V8 can get 500 HP without forced induction.
Let it be a high rever.

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S4cabriofox - 10/4/2006 11:05:28 PM

+1 Boost

Nice Lamborghini impression, Lotus.

Now let's see a real drawing.

Using a big, heavy BMW V10 is a mistake for a true sportscar.

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DarkOneForce - 10/6/2006 11:01:57 AM

+1 Boost

The V10 is actually lighter than the V8, and its actually 600+ HP engine, restricted to 500 HP.

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