1983 Lotus Esprit S3

Registration No: PVK 601Y
Chassis No: SCC085912CED11305
MOT: None

• c.71,400 recorded miles on the odometer
• Fitted with Turbo bodykit and tailgate
• Mechanically recommissioned in 2023 following a period of inactivity
• 1 of just 767 thought to have been made

Widely regarded as the best of the normally-aspirated, Giorgetto Giugiaro-styled Lotus Esprits, the S3 was introduced on April the 22^nd 1981. Visually updated via a plethora of colour-coded aerodynamic aids (front spoiler, side skirts, air scoops, etc), the model also boasted a new steering wheel, seats, and instruments. Derived from the Essex Turbo Esprit, its galvanised backbone chassis featured all-round independent suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and four-wheel disc brakes. Light and supremely agile in the best Lotus tradition, the S3 was powered by a mid-mounted 2174cc DOHC four-cylinder engine allied to a five-speed manual transmission. With a quoted 160bhp and 160lbft of torque on tap, it was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 6.7 seconds and 135mph. Notably more refined thanks to increased sound deadening, the junior supercar remained in production until 1987 by which time just 767 are thought to have been made.

The S3 offered is a home market example having been supplied new to the United Kingdom, being first registered on the 1^st of April that year. Finished in ‘Ferrari Red’ with Cream leather interior upholstery, the Esprit has benefitted from the fitment of a Turbo body kit and tailgate, and an attractive set of aftermarket split-rim alloy wheels. Taken off the road in a previous ownership (during 2008) with a view to restoring the Lotus, the restoration progressed as far as the paintwork being renewed before the project stalled. Standing for many years before being purchased by the vendor, the Lotus was mechanically recommissioned in July 2023 with a cambelt change, new starting equipment (coil, leads, etc.), a new distributor, fuelling system flush, new brake pads and handbrake cable, and new carpets. Showing some 71,400 miles on the odometer at the time of consignment, the Esprit will require some further fettling before pressing into road action. Accompanied by a current V5C document, the Lotus will be eligible for MOT exemption next year.

For more information, please contact:
Paul Cheetham
paul.cheetham@handh.co.uk
07538 667452