A one-of-a-kind Norfolk-built supercar which sat in a hangar and was set to be scrapped is going under the hammer.

The 1983 Lotus Esprit Turbo was one of the last experimental projects undertaken by the late, great Colin Chapman.

The supercar was the first motor fitted with an active suspension controlled by a computer.

Eastern Daily Press: The car is a one-of-a-kind pre-production modelThe car is a one-of-a-kind pre-production model (Image: Anglia Car Auctions)Eastern Daily Press: The car spent some time at the DeLorean Motor Company, makers of the Back to the Future car The car spent some time at the DeLorean Motor Company, makers of the Back to the Future car (Image: Anglia Car Auctions)

Freddie Knight, of Anglian Car Auctions, said: "This vehicle is certainly a very interesting car and an important part of Lotus history.

"It became the first active suspensions development car.

"The idea was to have an onboard computer which could monitor and allow the suspension to be adjusted as suited, even whilst the vehicle was travelling. 

The car also appeared on a 1983 episode of Top Gear, where host William Woollard highlighted the cutting-edge suspension system.

King Charles also made a visit to the one-of-a-kind motor. He was thought to have made the stop to the Lotus factory just after production was finished circa 1983.

After sitting in a hangar at Lotus in Hethel, the car was set to be scrapped.

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Eastern Daily Press: The car rocks a red leather interiorThe car rocks a red leather interior (Image: Anglia Car Auctions)Eastern Daily Press: King Charles was pictured with the carKing Charles was pictured with the car (Image: Anglia Car Auctions)

A former employee loved the car so much that he began hiding it around the factory, getting his knuckles rapped by higher-ups in the process. 

Eventually, Lotus management changed and the car was rightfully put on display before being sold years later.

The car has been extensively restored by the current owner who spent over £60,000 on the 40-year-old motor.

Guy Snelling, head of the classics department at Anglia Car Auctions, said: "For Lotus enthusiasts and collectors this represents a unique opportunity to purchase a big slice of Lotus history.

"It showcases the fact that this Norfolk-based company has been at the cutting edge of automotive technology for many decades."

The car is going to Anglia Car Auctions on Saturday, January 27 with a guide price of £90,000 to £120,000.