Market Position:
The Lotus Esprit S3 was positioned as a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive exotic sports car, competing with models from Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini in its price and performance bracket.
Key Competitors:
Ferrari 308/328 GTB/GTS, Porsche 911 SC/Carrera, Chevrolet Corvette C3/C4, Lamborghini Jalpa.
Unique Selling Points:
Distinctive Giugiaro wedge styling, mid-engine layout for optimal weight distribution, lightweight construction, and a focus on driver engagement.
Diy Savings:
Enables owners to perform a vast range of maintenance and repair tasks, significantly reducing labor costs associated with specialist workshops.
Device Compatibility:
Accessible on all modern computing devices (PC, Mac, tablets, smartphones) via free Adobe Reader software.
Years Covered:
1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987
Model Variants Covered:
All Esprit S3 models, including variations in engine tuning and optional equipment specific to these years.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely over 500 pages, typical for a comprehensive workshop manual of this era.
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF compatible)
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed repair and overhaul procedures for the Lotus 912 2.2L turbocharged inline-4 engine.
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic), emission control systems.
Transmission Manual:
Repair and overhaul of the Renault 5-speed transaxle, clutch operation, and linkage adjustments.
Chassis Suspension:
Front and rear independent suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment procedures.
Braking System:
Disc brake systems (front and rear), hydraulic system, calipers, rotors, brake lines, parking brake.
Steering System:
Rack and pinion steering, power steering system components and hydraulic circuits.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, gauges, switches, fuse box, electronic components.
Bodywork Exterior:
Fiberglass body panel repair, door mechanisms, hood and engine cover latches, window glass and seals, bumpers, trim pieces.
Interior Trim:
Seat removal and repair, dashboard components, door panels, headliner, carpet installation, HVAC controls.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filters, fuel injection system troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, cooling fan operation.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, exhaust pipes, hanger components.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks, tire pressure.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic procedures for common engine, electrical, and mechanical faults.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed steps for engine disassembly, component inspection, reassembly, and torque specifications.
Transmission Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for gearbox disassembling, repairing, and reassembling.
Suspension Repair:
Replacement of worn components like ball joints, bushings, and shock absorbers.
Brake System Service:
Pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, bleeding the brake system.
Electrical Diagnosis:
Fault finding for starting, charging, lighting, and accessory circuits.
Body Panel Repair:
Fiberglass repair techniques, including patching and filling.
HVAC System Service:
Servicing of the air conditioning and heating system, including component replacement and refrigerant handling (where applicable).
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
Lotus 912, Naturally Aspirated (though commonly referred to with turbocharger from earlier models, the S3 primarily used naturally aspirated variants before the turbocharger became standard on later versions of the S3 lineage, or referred to the turbo variants as 'Esprit Turbo'). This manual covers the S3 designation which often refers to the naturally aspirated 2.2L unit prior to the major Turbo Esprit variants. *Clarification: The 'S3' often implies the naturally aspirated version of the Type 912 engine, whereas 'Esprit Turbo' denotes the turbocharged variant. This manual likely covers both, or predominantly the naturally aspirated S3.*
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (2174 cc)
Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:
Approximately 160-170 bhp @ 6200 rpm (variant dependent)
Torque Naturally Aspirated:
Approximately 190-200 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (variant dependent)
Horsepower Turbocharged Variants:
Approximately 210-215 bhp @ 6500 rpm (for Esprit Turbo models covered in this year range)
Torque Turbocharged Variants:
Approximately 220-230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for Esprit Turbo models)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection (Naturally Aspirated), Bosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection (Turbocharged)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as specified by Lotus, typically 95 RON or higher)
Cooling Method:
Water-cooled, front-mounted radiator with electric fan.
Transmission Type:
Renault 365 5-speed Manual Transaxle
Optional Transmission:
Not available for the S3 model within this production period.
Drive Layout:
Mid-engine, Rear-wheel Drive
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual, critical for performance tuning and diagnosis.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Refer to manual for specific GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specification (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W/90 or equivalent).
Length:
Approx. 4,200 mm (165.4 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,770 mm (69.7 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,110 mm (43.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,440 mm (96.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,100 - 1,250 kg (2425 - 2756 lbs), depending on specification.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific timing belt replacement (if applicable to this engine variant) and other major service items.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-40 or 20W-50, likely semi-synthetic or synthetic).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), Dexron II or equivalent, as specified by Lotus.
Fiberglass Body:
Susceptible to spider cracking and delamination if not properly maintained; requires specialized repair techniques.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical faults; thorough inspection and potential refurbishment are advised.
Cooling System:
Radiator and coolant hose degradation can lead to overheating; regular inspection is crucial.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber bushings in suspension and steering components can perish over time, affecting handling and ride quality.
Transmission Leaks:
Potential for leaks from seals and gaskets on the Renault transaxle; requires specific gasket sets for repair.
Brand Legacy:
Lotus Cars, founded by Colin Chapman, known for lightweight construction ('simplification, then add lightness') and racing pedigree (Formula 1 championships).
Giugiaro Design Era:
The S3 represents the evolution of the original Giugiaro-designed wedge-shaped Esprit, featuring refined styling and mechanical improvements over earlier Series 1, 2, and 2.2 models.
Transition To Chrysler:
This period (1980s) saw Lotus under different ownerships, including General Motors and later Chrysler, influencing development and production strategies.
Production Period S3:
The 'S3' designation typically refers to the naturally aspirated 2.2L models produced during the early to mid-1980s, bridging the gap to the more potent turbocharged variants.
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, United Kingdom.
