I'm not in Chicago, but I just want to say: I'm 6 feet even (although someone with a slightly longer torso). The previous owner to me took the seat rails out and just bolted the seats directly to the floor to give a bit more headroom. Even after that, I can't wear a baseball hat in the car or it will hit the roof and the sun visor.

You may be more tolerant, or have a lot of height in the legs, but I'd just say: it's a long shot

Here is a photo of a friend of mine who is 6'5'' trying to sit in my car. He was not satisfied. He described it as "I very very much did not fit".

Hello,

I am considering buying a Lotus Esprit (96-2004), but I am hesitant due to being 6'5".

I have read through all the forum posts about adjustments tall drivers have made to fit into their Esprits, but I'm at the point I just need to sit in one and see if my dream of being an Esprit owner is foolish.

Are there any Esprit owners in the Chicago area that have plans to go to any of the local car meets coming up?

I live in downtown Chicago and sadly the closest Esprit to buy at a dealership is located in Ohio, so finding one local is difficulty.

Thank you for everyone's help!

 

Thanks man, I appreciate the feedback! I have a short torso, but long legs and arms. So I figure my legs will hit the steering wheel and possibly the dash, but I am hoping to alter the steering column and wheel and also bolt aftermarket seats (possibly Recaro Pole Position) directly to the floor for additional clearance.

But I appreciate the photos as well!

And you are right, this dream is a long shot. I've just always wanted an Esprit since I was a little kid, so I'm trying to see if the dream is remotely feasible.

 

Short torso might play in your favor but it will be close....I would look for clubs and meets in your area in Regions and post a want to test fit Esprit there as well.

https://www.lotustalk.com/forums/midwest-region.112/

 

From another forum
March 28, 2007comment_92702
Quite a few tall Esprit Drivers on this forum. I have an 89 Esprit and am 6" 6". Mark Blanchard think is same height and as for bigsi - 6" 7" enough said. Getting in and out is not done with much grace but once in, absolutely fine.

 

Sounds like 65 is a little bit tall for any Esprit, but definitely find one to sit in to be sure, because if you fit, it will be well worth it…

 

I’m 6’4” and I find the Esprit to be quite cozy once inside, in a good way. As long as it’s a V8, you’ll fit. There is plenty of room to stretch out by sliding your foot behind the clutch on a long drive. I tend to drive barefoot but it’s the same affect wearing driving shoes. I’m size 14 and regular shoes are a no-go. I fit with the composite or glass roof installed, though popping either gives a little more headroom. You’ll make it work, man. If you want one, go for it. My only regret after 5+ years is not pulling the trigger sooner!

 

Thanks man, I appreciate your input and help! This is definitely reassuring to hear!

 

I’m 6’4” and I find the Esprit to be quite cozy once inside, in a good way. As long as it’s a V8, you’ll fit. There is plenty of room to stretch out by sliding your foot behind the clutch on a long drive. I tend to drive barefoot but it’s the same affect wearing driving shoes. I’m size 14 and regular shoes are a no-go. I fit with the composite or glass roof installed, though popping either gives a little more headroom. You’ll make it work, man. If you want one, go for it. My only regret after 5+ years is not pulling the trigger sooner!

Hello,

I am considering buying a Lotus Esprit (96-2004), but I am hesitant due to being 6'5".

I have read through all the forum posts about adjustments tall drivers have made to fit into their Esprits, but I'm at the point I just need to sit in one and see if my dream of being an Esprit owner is foolish.

Are there any Esprit owners in the Chicago area that have plans to go to any of the local car meets coming up?

I live in downtown Chicago and sadly the closest Esprit to buy at a dealership is located in Ohio, so finding one local is difficulty.

Thank you for everyone's help!

I have an 97 Esprit. it is at Glenview Luxury Imports for repair (been there since mid May ... argh). You are welcome to go there and ask them to see and try it out. Tell them Alexei Gitter sent you. I expect they will be accommodating. You can show them this post.

 

Saw yours up on a lift yesterday picking up my GT! Beautiful car!

 

If I'm getting the name correct.....it was Dan Gurney......
Dan, who raced the Ford GT40s back at LeMans, was tall........so a small bubble was added to the roof to allow for head/helmet clearance.
So instead of a glass top to the Esprit.......using a solid top, put a bubble in it....and get yourself an Esprit !

 

You might want to drive out to the British Union Car Show this weekend in Palatine. There are usually some Esprits there. (At least, there have been the few times I’ve been up there to do the show - but I won’t be there this year because I’m at LOG with my V8!)

I think it’s going to be a challenge for you, but to be SURE, find a V8 with a glass roof. The V8 seats were modified to offer more room for larger people, and the glass roof gives you another inch or two of head room. Speaking generally, the Esprits got more room as they were developed, but there’s only so much they could do.

 

Details on the festival are here:

Chicago British Car Festival – British Car Union

britishcarunion.com

 

I have an 03 that I keep in Chicago. NOT FOR SALE. I'd be happy to let you sit in the car if you want see if you fit. Usually in Old Town or River North. British car show could be a good option for you but I don't think I'm going this year.

 

Just wanted to say we missed you and your gorgeous Esprit yesterday! Hope you're doing well.

 

Hello,

I am considering buying a Lotus Esprit (96-2004), but I am hesitant due to being 6'5".

I have read through all the forum posts about adjustments tall drivers have made to fit into their Esprits, but I'm at the point I just need to sit in one and see if my dream of being an Esprit owner is foolish.

Are there any Esprit owners in the Chicago area that have plans to go to any of the local car meets coming up?

I live in downtown Chicago and sadly the closest Esprit to buy at a dealership is located in Ohio, so finding one local is difficulty.

Thank you for everyone's help!

If you're in the Chicago area, come out to the British Car Festival tomorrow, Sunday Sept 7th. We usually have a few Esprits at the show, and I'm sure someone will let you try one on for size!

Brit Car Fest - 9AM to 3PM
Harper College
1200 West Algonquin Road
Palatine, Illinois 60067-7398

 

Thank you! That would be absolutely amazing! I live Downtown and sold our last car, so you being in the Old Town/River North is perfect!

Thank you again for your help, I greatly appreciate the offer!

 

Thank you! That would be absolutely amazing! I live Downtown and sold our last car, so you being in the Old Town/River North is perfect!

Thank you again for your help, I greatly appreciate the offer!

 

Thank you for everyone’s responses! I was able to meet up with Dlamps57 and he showed me his Esprit; absolutely incredible!

At 6’5” I fit, but will definitely need the glass roof and may need to eventually look into different seats for additional headroom/legroom.

But the dream is alive and I greatly appreciate Dlamps57, Sagitter, and everyone else’s help and advice!

 

Thanks for sharing this, it’s tough to be interested in a car and not sure that you will fit!