Lotus Esprit S2 JPS

The Lotus Esprit S2 JPS stands as an unapologetic celebration of Lotus's Formula 1 triumphs, wrapped in a sleek black and gold livery that screams motorsport royalty. Introduced in 1978, this limited-edition model paid homage to Lotus's partnership with John Player Special, a collaboration that dominated Grand Prix circuits and etched itself into racing folklore.

Beneath its striking exterior, the Esprit S2 JPS retained the mid-mounted 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a spirited 160 horsepower—modest by today's standards, but utterly intoxicating when paired with its featherweight fiberglass body and razor-sharp handling. Driving one is an exercise in pure automotive joy, the unassisted steering communicating every nuance of the road directly to your fingertips, rewarding precision and punishing complacency.

Visually, the JPS edition is unmistakable, its wedge-shaped Giugiaro design accentuated by gold pinstriping and commemorative badging, instantly evoking images of Andretti and Peterson carving through corners at Monaco. While the interior might generously be described as 'period-correct,' with ergonomics clearly an afterthought, the sheer charisma and historical significance of this car more than compensate for any ergonomic shortcomings.