Positioning:
Specialist sports car, iconic British design and performance
Competitors:
Ferrari 308/328 GTB/GTS, Lamborghini Jalpa, Porsche 911
Design Philosophy:
Mid-engined layout, Giugiaro-designed wedge styling, lightweight construction
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a distinctive, driver-focused sports car
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, tuning, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition systems
Transmission:
Manual transmission service, clutch, gearbox overhaul, driveshafts
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, calipers, discs, pads, lines, parking brake
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment
Steering:
Steering rack, linkages, column, power steering (if applicable)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting system, charging system, instrumentation
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, pumps, lines, carburetors (specific to S3 models)
Cooling System:
Radiator, hoses, thermostat, water pump, fan
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, pipes, mufflers, catalytic converter (if applicable)
Bodywork:
Panel removal and installation, trim, doors, glass, aerodynamics
Interior:
Seats, dashboard, trim panels, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Component overhaul, replacement, and adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and specific issues
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for complete vehicle disassembly and reassembly
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (suitable for DIY and professional mechanics)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (Lotus Type 907/912 evolution)
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (2174 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
95.25 mm x 76.2 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.4:1 (typical for S3)
Horsepower:
Approx. 160-170 bhp @ 6000 rpm (depending on specific market and tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 192-200 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (depending on specific market and tuning)
Induction:
Dual Dell'Orto DHLA 45 carburetors (common for S3)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle (Renault UN1)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 1st: 3.09, 2nd: 2.05, 3rd: 1.39, 4th: 1.05, 5th: 0.83)
Length:
Approx. 4200 mm (165.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1120 mm (44.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 in)
Kerb Weight:
Approx. 1150 kg (2535 lbs)
Weight Distribution:
Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive, balanced distribution
Crash Test Results:
N/A (Vehicles of this era did not undergo standardized crash testing as they do today)
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (e.g., Girling 2-piston calipers front, 1-piston rear)
ABS:
Not typically equipped on S3 models
Seatbelts:
Standard 3-point seatbelts
Chassis Construction:
Steel backbone chassis with fiberglass body panels
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for precise intervals)
Major Service:
Refer to manual for detailed recommendations (e.g., timing belt, valve adjustment)
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 or 15W-50 (API SE/SF) – refer to manual for exact specification
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90) – refer to manual for precise type
Common Problems:
Fiberglass body stress cracks, suspension bushing wear, aging electrical components, carburetor tuning challenges, clutch wear, potential for overheating if cooling system is neglected.
Preventative Measures:
Regular inspection of fiberglass, diligent maintenance of cooling and lubrication systems, checking all electrical connections.
Founder:
Anthony Colin Bruce Chapman (ACBC Chapman)
Ethos:
Lightweight, advanced aerodynamics, superior handling (Innovate or Perish)
Predecessor:
Lotus Esprit (Series 1, 2, 2.2)
Key Changes To S3:
Introduction of the 2.2L Type 912 engine, revised interior, improved ergonomics, typically the first Esprit with a 5-speed gearbox as standard.
Manufacturing Location:
Norwich, Norfolk, England
Production Period:
1976-1987 (Esprit range), S3 specifically 1981-1987 approx.
