Model Generation:
X180 (though this manual covers earlier S3 variants prior to the full X180 redesign)
Applicable Years:
1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
Chassis Codes:
Esprit S3 (specific internal codes may vary by year/market, but S3 denotes a significant variant)
Vehicle Class:
Mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car
Brand Philosophy:
Lightweight, pure sports car handling and performance.
Competitors:
Porsche 911, Ferrari 308/328 GTB/GTS, Chevrolet Corvette.
Design Language:
Wedge-shaped, aerodynamic styling characteristic of its era.
Chassis Construction:
Steel backbone chassis with fiberglass body panels.
Powertrain Layout:
Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive for optimal weight distribution and handling.
Engine:
Lotus Type 912 (2.2L DOHC Inline-4), including fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, and emissions control systems.
Transmission:
Renault UN-1 5-speed transaxle, clutch system, driveline components.
Suspension:
Front: Independent unequal-length wishbones, coil springs, telescopic dampers, anti-roll bar. Rear: Independent trailing arms, transverse links, coil springs, telescopic dampers.
Brakes:
Front: Girling 4-piston calipers, ventilated discs. Rear: Girling 2-piston calipers, solid discs. Brake system hydraulics and servicing.
Electrical System:
12V system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, indicators), dashboard instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, and accessory circuits.
Bodywork:
Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) body construction, chassis frame, door mechanisms, window operation, interior trim, exterior panels, paintwork, and collision repair considerations.
Steering:
Rack and pinion steering system, steering column, and universal joints.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, and Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (if factory-equipped).
Maintenance:
Routine servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, lubrication points.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing procedures, diagnostic codes (if applicable to the K-Jetronic system).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and adjustment for all major systems.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed procedures for taking apart and reassembling various vehicle components and systems.
Cleaning:
Procedures for cleaning specific components during maintenance or repair.
Adjustment:
Adjustment procedures for engine timing, ignition timing, idle speed, clutch, and other mechanical settings.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (covering from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls)
Diagrams:
Inclusion of detailed mechanical diagrams, exploded views, and electrical wiring schematics.
Torque Specifications:
Provision of critical torque values for fasteners and component assembly.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Availability of structured troubleshooting guides for common problems.
Length:
Approx. 4040 mm (159.1 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1130 mm (44.5 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1100-1150 kg (2425-2535 lbs)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2438 mm (96.0 in)
Front Wheel Size:
7J x 15" (common size, may vary)
Rear Wheel Size:
8J x 15" (common size, may vary)
Front Tire Size:
205/60 VR 15 (common size, may vary)
Rear Tire Size:
215/60 VR 15 or 235/55 VR 15 (common sizes, may vary)
Audio System:
Period-appropriate cassette player with AM/FM radio, typically with aftermarket speaker upgrades in many examples.
Dashboard:
Analog gauges for speed, RPM, oil pressure, water temperature, fuel level, and battery voltage.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard or widely available on most S3 models of this era, though it may have been an option on later iterations.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Vehicle predates modern connectivity standards like Bluetooth, USB, etc.)
Oil Change:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles (19,200 km) or as required based on conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 18,000 - 24,000 miles (29,000 - 38,000 km), depending on plug type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Lotus specified intervals are crucial; typically every 3-4 years or mileage based, as failure can be catastrophic. Specific interval from manual is essential.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH rated, SAE 10W-50 or 20W-50 (check specific manual for exact recommendation and viscosity index improvers).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Specification: BS 6580 or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 rated gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Clutch Fluid:
Typically DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (shared with brake system).
Fiberglass Body:
Gelcoat cracking, delamination, stress cracks around stress points, minor impact damage. Requires specialized fiberglass repair techniques.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corrosion in connectors, intermittent faults common in vehicles of this age. Thorough inspection of wiring diagrams is key.
K Jetronic Fuel System:
Aging fuel accumulator, pressure regulator issues, injector leaks, air leaks in vacuum/fuel lines can cause rough running or starting problems.
Rust Potential:
While the body is fiberglass, the steel backbone chassis and suspension components are susceptible to rust, especially in damp climates. Regular inspection and treatment are vital.
Cooling System:
Corrosion in radiators, hoses perishing, and water pump seals can lead to overheating if not maintained.
Brand Ethos:
Lightweight engineering, innovation, and racing pedigree.
Esprit Lineage:
Successor to the original Mitter Series Esprit, introduction of the S3 marked a significant update and refinement of the mid-engined platform.
Key Updates In Series:
The S3 designation generally referred to the 2.2L engine and further refinements over earlier iterations, bridging the gap towards the X180 model.
Manufacturing Plant:
Norfolk, England (Lotus factory)
Production Years For S3:
Early 1980s through to mid-1987 (overlapping with early X180 models)
