1978 LOTUS ESPRIT S1

This Lotus Esprit S1 is an alluringly presented example of the Giorgetto Giugiaro-penned ‘70s sports car. It is powered by a 2.0-litre inline-four engine producing 160bhp, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. This example’s odometer indicates it has covered just 76,619 miles in 42 years.

First registered on 18 January 1978, this Esprit has been owned and maintained by the current vendor for 16 months. The ‘Series 1’ Esprit has a number of differences to later cars, with the most visible being the rear lights, cleaner body styling, Wolfrace alloy wheels and simpler front lip spoiler.

Originally ordered from the factory in black, this Lotus has been repainted in vibrant yellow. The paintwork presents well, with the vendor noting only a minor scratch on the rear bumper, and stating that other small blemishes were recently removed by a professional paint correction specialist. There is a hairline crack in the offside front indicator lens, but otherwise the lenses and body trims are in good order. The front splitter also shows some minor cracking, though is in complete condition.

All original badging and decals are present, including the celebratory plaque highlighting the manufacturer’s Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship titles throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The original fitment Wolfrace alloy wheels present to a polished finish and are free of kerbing marks, though minor blemishes are visible around the valve caps and wheel bolts.

Moving inside the cabin, the black leather door cards, central armrest, handbrake sleeve and seats have been re-trimmed, and have yellow accent stitching to complement the body colour. The interior presents in remarkable condition, with no bolster wear or damage visible on either seat. It is a wonderfully driver-focused ambience, with the classic wood gear knob falling easily to hand.

Much like the exterior, the interior was originally specified in a different colour – Beige cloth and brown Marcasite interior – and this upholstery work has been carried out professionally prior to the vendor’s ownership. The original green-backed Veglia dials also present in great condition, and the seller states that everything inside the cabin is in fully-functional condition.

The most recent maintenance was carried out in June 2020, when the Esprit was fitted with an electronic ignition system, and had the fuel pump cleaned, with a new fuel filter and flexible fuel pipes fitted.

Prior to this, the Lotus was serviced at 76,512 miles in November 2017. This included a replacement cam belt, a fresh set of spark plugs, air filter, engine oil and filters, as well as fitment of a replacement steering rack and reconditioned alternator. The work was carried out by Lotus Approved Service Centre, Rapid Mechanical Services Ltd in Essex.

The most recent MOT test was on 15 June 2020, resulting in a first-time pass. The only advisory noted was for play in the nearside front steering rack inner joint. This Esprit wears a set of Goodyear Eagle NCT 2 tyres all round, which the seller reports are in excellent condition with ample tread depth remaining.

The Lotus will reach its next owner with its original and rare owner’s handbook, as well as two sales brochures for the model. No fewer than 21 historical invoices dating back to 1985 will also be provided, and the paperwork also includes a Lotus Certificate of Vehicle Provenance.

A well-maintained and beautifully finished example of a 1970s pin-up sports car, this Lotus Esprit is an eminently usable example of the classic wedge-shaped design. It would make a welcome addition to any garage, whether the next owner is new to classic Lotus ownership, or is a seasoned collector.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Car Overview

  • 76,619 miles
  • manual
  • RHD
  • Yellow
  • Black
  • 2.0L


Lot Overview

  • Lot #01164
  • private Sale
  • Oxted, Surrey, United Kingdom

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