The Lotus Esprit Turbo "Submarine" is without a doubt an icon of automotive history and the world of cinema. Featuring in the James Bond film "The Spy Who Loved Me," it captured the imagination of both car enthusiasts and movie lovers. The 1/18 scale miniature version by AUTOart from the collection of Modelly member "viper64" captures all the charm and intricate details of the original. Specifically crafted as a diecast model, this miniature offers a precise replica of the famous film vehicle originally developed by Colin Chapman and the Lotus design team.
The Lotus Esprit Turbo "Submarine" was based on the second generation of the Esprit, produced from 1980 to 1987, featuring a touch of futuristic design in the sports car segment. The car was powered by a 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 210 horsepower and 260 Nm (191.7 lb-ft) of torque. It could reach a top speed of around 240 km/h (149 mph) and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in approximately 6.1 seconds. Notably, the car stood out technically with its fiberglass monocoque frame and wedge-shaped design penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro. It is worth mentioning that the Esprit "Submarine" was modified specifically for the film to realistically navigate underwater.
The 1/18 scale model by AUTOart impresses with its faithful reproduction of the original vehicle. From the photos, it's evident that the surface texture and color scheme have been meticulously replicated. Detailed features like the ribs on the side windows and the characteristic air intakes on the hood are clearly visible. The white paint with black accents is executed with precision, creating a realistic portrayal of the original film vehicle. Furthermore, the miniature is mounted on a transparent stand, enhancing the illusion of the car floating.
The diecast material gives the AUTOart miniature a special stability and authenticity, enhancing the level of detail. The flaps and design of the "Submarine" have been exceptionally well reproduced, including the movable wings on the sides that were used for the car's underwater transformation. The antennas and spoilers on the car's roof are also faithfully replicated. This miniature serves as an attractive and impressive collector's item, a must-have for any model car enthusiast or fan of James Bond vehicles.