Everyone did a good job responding, but I thought I'd add my $.02 since I also considered the Lotus. and I could have had either for the price I paid for a new NSX.
I live in Lancaster and that is home of the Manheim auto auction, the largest wholesale auto auction in the country. Near it is a very respected high-line garage that does repairs on exotic cars that come through the auction, and i've gotten to know the owner pretty well. When I asked him about reliability about the Lotus, he said "if you even have to ask about it, its not the car for you". The Lotus will break frequently, you will wait for parts for a long time, and it will be $$$.
I always liked the shape of the Esprit since they were popular in the James Bond films, but when I took a close look, it looks too much like a kit car with plastic parts and fender lips tacked on. Even the newer interiors have a crude appearance. The NSX is so beautifully finished.
I know that if I would have bought a Lotus, i'd be tired of it by now and not driven it much. I've only had my NSX for a month, and i'v put 1300 miles on it and look for every chance to drive it. Its so good, and so much fun. I'm going to see if I can wear it out.
Best of luck and get what you really want. The best advice I've read in the posts is to see them both and deceide.
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keep the shiny side up
MikeC 01 #46