Panoz made headlines in the late 1990s with a string of racing wins including strong finishes at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. But since then, things have been rather quiet from the race-focused company. The company has carried on selling the fantastically named Esperante in various states of tune while offering a few other cars for sale as well. But this year Panoz turns 25 and they’re celebrating with a V8 powered anniversary edition.
The 25th Anniversary Edition Esperante Spyder is a lighter and more powerful version of the “standard” Esperante. Buyers even have their choice between aluminum and carbon fibre bodywork. The car comes standard with a 430 horsepower 32-valve V8 (of Ford descension) and is available with up to 800 horsepower. No further details are given as to how the Esperante produces that monstrous number but we can guess it doesn’t come cheap.
Speaking of price, the Panoz 25th Anniversary Edition Esperante Spyder starts at an exorbitant $181,320, which puts it in the price range of some very stiff competition including the excellent Porsche 911 Turbo. But if race-bred sports cars are what you like to drive and you love automotive exclusivity, this might be the car for you.
The 25th Anniversary Edition Esperante Spyder
Handout, Panoz
