Exotic. Elite. Roadster. American. All of these can be used to describe this 2001 Panoz Esperante RSr, and the best part is all these attractive adjectives come in a supercharged 525+ hp package. This particular car was actually owned by Dr. Panoz himself when it was new, so you know you’re getting the best of the best with this one! Panoz is one of those great exotic car companies that one day we will talk about in the same way we do now about the post-war coachbuilders of Europe. Only this story comes out of Georgia. The Panoz family takes their racing knowledge honed on the track and built it into a few select road cars like this Esperante roadster. The one part of this story that won’t be like the small batch Europeans is build quality. While we often joke about how poorly those were built back in the day, Panoz really understands how to make uniform panels out of strong and lightweight SPF aluminum. The racer-grade alloy has been shaped into a unique and aggressive design. This is a low mileage babied exotic, and so the original blue paint still has an amazing luster that would make new cars jealous. This level of care is reflected in all the other components from the rear spoiler to the power folding roof. While this is a performance machine, it also was built to compete with the luxury exotics. You get a premium interior with tan leather bucket seats and plenty of wood on the dash. It has great features like an AM/FM/CD stereo, power locks, driver airbag, cruise control, tilt wheel, keyless entry, and ice cold air conditioning. Even with these added luxuries, you’ll know this is a driver’s vehicle the moment you grab the Momo performance steering wheel and turn the key to watch the white-faced gauges do their dance. The other great thing about turning the key is that it awakens the beast in the engine bay. When you take a look under the hood, you’ll see that this is no ordinary Esperante. A handful were specially worked on by JRD Tuning. Think of the company in the same way that Dinan is to BMW or Roush to Ford. JRD takes the 4.6-liter V8 and supercharges it to a 525+ hp monster machine utilizing a Paxton NOVI supercharger amongst other upgrades. This is more than just bolting on power, the package also includes components like a new vented hood, stainless headers, new exhaust, high-performance clutch, six-speed transmission, and Brembo brakes. All of this is great for performance, but this Esperante RSr is also fine as a luxury cruiser. The overdrive transmission is connected to a limited slip rear end running a versatile 3.73 ratio. Plus, the Goodyear Eagle tires are perfect for performance and comfort. Best of all, the mileage has this one averaging barely over 1,000 miles per year, which is more evidence this Panoz was babied just like a cherished Mercedes or Ferrari.
Price: Auction
More info: Listing has ended. Click to search on eBay for similar 2001 Panoz Esperante (Affiliate link)
Location: Lutz, Florida, United States
