Lotus Esprit Specs, Engines & Dimensions (1976–1979) — First Generation
The first-generation Lotus Esprit is a sharp Coupe with the engine behind you. You sit low, the car stays compact, and this generation is about direct responses rather than extra seats or everyday luxury.
The Lotus Esprit engine sits behind the cabin, and a 2.0 MT Coupe is a clear example of the idea: a 2.0-liter gasoline unit, a manual transmission you work yourself, and rear-wheel drive. That powertrain keeps the drivetrain simple, so you feel what the rear tires are doing.