Ugly Duckling: 1977 Lotus Esprit S1

Good news for cheap car lovers out there -- the derelict look is in!  Some folks call it outlaw style, but it means that unrestored cars are cool, and mismatching bumpers are hip.  Magnus Walker could affix a New Beetle roof on a 911 using the elastic from his tighty whities and a bunch of dudes under an air conditioned tent in the Phoenix desert would throw panties money at him. It also means that cars with peeling paint and starters that only work on the third try aren't a total embarrassment, so you can own one of these:  A 1977 Lotus Esprit S1 here on eBay bidding for $13,599 with 2 days to go, located in Olympia, WA.

White Knight: 1978 Lotus Esprit S1

You'd have to be brain dead to not love Giorgetto Giugiaro's Series 1 Lotus Esprit -- its polygonal folded paper design is drop dead gorgeous and beyond reproach. It is also extremely affordable compared to similar era supercars like a Lamborghini Countach or Porsche 911 Turbo.  It may have something to do with small inline-4 cylinder engine tucked under the stylish sheet metal fiberglass, but going slow is cool these days...right?  Find this 1978 Lotus Esprit S1 offered for $14,000 in Miami, FL via craigslist.  Tip from Greg.