I have a 02 Lotus Esprit that runs like a scalded cat, handles like its on a rail, sounds like a beast and turns heads everywhere I go. BUT, service is hard to come by with a very limited number of people able to work on it, parts availability difficult and concerns about long term driveability. I have not had any mechanical problems as I take great care of it but it just isn't a daily driver car - it truly is an exotic. I want a daily driver that will give me the same type of thrill when driving, but be more friendly in regards to service, durability and everyday livability. Is the GT3 THAT car?? I have been looking at 07/08 GT3's...

 

You have an Esprit Turbo. The GT3 is more like an Exige, except that it is heavier and more power/weight. The GT3 or GT3RS are great cars - I drive my GT3RS.1 on the street, often as a daily driver, but most people don't. A better comparison in the Porsche product range would be a 997TT. A 'pre-owned' (i.e., used) 997.1 TT are going for $75-90K in the retail market these days, you can get them with low miles, and they are very reliable cars.

 

You should go drive a Turbo and a GT3 and see which one you like best. IMO, the Esprit is closer to a Turbo (which I have) and I agree with the post above, a GT3 is more Exige like (which I also have).

Good luck.

 

Actually drove a 07 Turbo and really didn't like it. I didn't like the AWD or the clutch. I am supposed to drive a GT3 this week and can't wait! The car was definitely put together better than the Esprit.

 

it's hard not to love the feel of the steering, clutch, transmission etc... on a GT3. Go for a drive and I think everything that you didn't like about the TT will be a distant memory

 

Completely different cars, a good replacement for the Esprit would be a gallardo

 

I used to have an Esprit 300 Sport,now I have a 997 turbo.Yes,the turbo is quicker,more reliable and better built,but the Esprit did have some good points.The steering was lighter and had better feel,the ride seemed more "sporty" and better damped and the car seemed to be more "fun" to drive hard.I drove a GT2 on only a brief test drive,but I have a feeling that this is the one to follow an Esprit!Loads a turbocharged torque,great steering,sporty suspension and damping and it seemed a lot of fun to drive and "confidence inspiring".I am seriously considering a Gt2 for myself in the spring...

 

Drove an 07 GT3 yesterday and it is everything that I thought it would be. It is tight, responsive, great sound when hit the accelerator and obviously a much easier car to live with on a day to day basis than the Esprit but still has some of the edginess of the Esprit. I would agree that the Esprit is much like the Lambo. I am in love with the car and will not rest until I have one!

 

A GT3 is what every car guy needs