Throttle House gives the 1998 Lotus Esprit V8 a moderately positive 60/100 score, praising its stunning wedgy design with pop-up headlights and its impressive performance with sub-5-second 0-60 times and Ferrari F355-comparable power-to-weight ratio, while also noting it undercuts Italian rivals in price. However, the Esprit struggles with a weak interior identity compared to competitors like the NSX and Ferrari, an outdated Alpine radio system, and cramped headroom that limits livability. A transmission borrowed from Renault also isn't fully capable of handling the engine's potential, and despite being fundamentally good to drive, reviewers found it lacking excitement—no single aspect memorable enough to lose sleep over. The Esprit appeals to buyers who value iconic styling and capable performance over cutting-edge cabin technology and driver engagement.