Encor Series 1: Experience the Reimagined Esprit’s 400bhp V8 Engine Sound

This topic has 15 replies, 12 voices, and was last updated 4 months, 3 weeks ago by bjornlopezht.

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April 11, 2026 #1780
ernstnasserfz
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Hey everyone, I just came across this incredible news about the Encor Series 1, which is essentially a reimagined version of the classic Lotus Esprit. What really caught my attention is that they’ve equipped it with a 400bhp V8 engine, and from what I’ve read, the sound is absolutely phenomenal.

For those unfamiliar, the original Esprit was an iconic supercar from the 1970s onwards, known for its distinctive wedge-shaped design and impressive performance. The Encor Series 1 appears to be taking that legacy and bringing it into the modern era with significantly upgraded powertrain specifications.

The 400bhp V8 is a serious piece of engineering. That kind of horsepower from a naturally aspirated V8 is no joke, especially in a relatively lightweight chassis. According to the Autocar article, the sound of this engine is something special – they’re emphasizing how the V8 produces that classic, visceral sound that modern turbocharged engines just can’t replicate.

I’m really intrigued by this approach. There’s been such a trend toward turbocharging and electrification lately that it’s refreshing to see someone bringing back the pure, naturally aspirated V8 experience. The Encor Series 1 seems to be targeting enthusiasts who appreciate that raw mechanical connection you get with a proper V8.

Has anyone else heard about this project? What do you think about the direction they’re taking with the Esprit nameplate? Is a modern reimagining with a 400bhp V8 the right call, or would you have preferred them to stick with the original concept? I’m keen to hear your thoughts, especially if anyone’s managed to find video footage of the engine in action.
April 11, 2026 #1781
petra_riverad
Participant
This is exactly what the automotive world needs right now. A proper V8 engine with genuine horsepower, not some downsized turbo trying to compensate. The Esprit was always about raw performance and driver engagement, and a 400bhp naturally aspirated V8 absolutely delivers on that promise. Can’t wait to hear more about the final specifications.
April 11, 2026 #1782
bjornlopezht
Participant
I have to disagree with the nostalgia angle here. Sure, the V8 sounds great, but we’re in 2024. A 400bhp V8 in a car like this is going to have terrible fuel economy and questionable emissions. Why not go hybrid or fully electric? The performance would be comparable and it would actually be relevant for today’s market.
April 11, 2026 #1783
ruba.rossqv
Participant
The maintenance costs on a 400bhp V8 are going to be astronomical. Premium fuel, regular oil changes with synthetic oil, potential turbo issues down the line if they’ve added forced induction – we’re talking $3000+ annually just to keep this thing running properly. Not everyone can afford that kind of commitment.
April 11, 2026 #1784
lina_begumu
Participant
Has anyone found any pricing information yet? I’m curious how much the Encor Series 1 is going to cost. For a handcrafted, limited-production car with a 400bhp V8, I’m imagining this won’t be cheap. Probably looking at six figures, right?
April 11, 2026 #1785
ernstnasserfz
Participant
Following up on my original post – I managed to find a 30-second clip of the engine startup and it’s genuinely impressive. That V8 rumble is unmistakable. For anyone who’s driven modern supercars, this represents a completely different philosophy. It’s about mechanical purity rather than technological complexity.
April 11, 2026 #1786
zara_wozniakn
Participant
The Esprit design was revolutionary for its time. I wonder how Encor has approached the styling for the Series 1. Are they staying true to the original wedge aesthetic or modernizing it? The proportions need to be perfect to do justice to such an iconic heritage.
April 11, 2026 #1787
lancereyesrc
Participant
400bhp from a V8 is respectable, but not groundbreaking by today’s standards. Some turbocharged engines produce similar output from much smaller displacements. I’m more interested in how they’ve handled the weight distribution and aerodynamics. That’s what really matters for a car like this.
April 11, 2026 #1788
maria_saadv
Participant
I absolutely love this concept. There’s something special about hearing a properly tuned V8 engine. Modern cars have become too sanitized, too digital, too disconnected from the driving experience. The Encor Series 1 seems to be championing authenticity and craftsmanship.
April 11, 2026 #1789
astridxv
Participant
Does anyone know if they’re planning limited production runs or if this is going to be an ongoing model? If it’s truly exclusive, that could make it a serious investment piece for collectors. The original Esprit values have been climbing steadily.
April 11, 2026 #1790
emiliodq
Participant
The V8 engine in isolation is impressive, but what about the rest of the package? Chassis, suspension, brakes? Is this a complete ground-up redesign or are they using modern components adapted to the classic Esprit design? These details matter more than just the horsepower figure.
April 11, 2026 #1791
amirapz
Participant
I respectfully disagree with the sentiment here. Clinging to V8 engines is just nostalgia clouding judgment. Electric motors can deliver the performance immediately without any of the complexity or environmental impact. The future isn’t about reviving the past, it’s about moving forward intelligently.
April 11, 2026 #1792
jareddl
Participant
The audio experience is honestly one of the last things that separates traditional combustion engines from electric alternatives. If Encor can deliver that authentic V8 soundtrack alongside modern reliability and performance, they’ve got something truly special. That’s worth celebrating.
April 11, 2026 #1793
ruba.rossqv
Participant
Correction to my earlier post about maintenance – I should mention that if this is a boutique manufacturer like Encor, they’ll probably offer extended warranty coverage and service packages. That might offset some of the ongoing costs, but it’s still something to consider before purchasing.
April 11, 2026 #1794
lina_begumu
Participant
Just found the official Encor website and it confirms Series 1 is limited to 50 units globally. That’s incredibly exclusive. With only 50 being produced, this is definitely positioned as a collector’s item rather than a production car. Expect significant appreciation potential.
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