Vehicle Segment:
Exotic sports car, high-performance grand tourer.
Key Competitors:
Ferrari F355, Porsche 911 (993 generation), Chevrolet Corvette C5, Dodge Viper RT/10.
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight construction, aerodynamic styling, mid-engine layout for optimal weight distribution and handling.
Engine Development:
Transition from the four-cylinder to the potent V8, signifying a significant performance upgrade and differentiation.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.2L I4, 3.6L V8, 3.5L V8), Engine Management, Transmission (likely Manual and potentially Automatic variants of the era), Clutch, Engine Cooling, Fuel System
Chassis And Suspension:
Chassis, Front Suspensions, Rear Suspensions, Steering, Brakes, Wheels and Tyres
Body And Electrical:
Bodycare and Repair, Body Fittings, Electrics, Heating and Ventilation
Maintenance:
Maintenance and Lubrication
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step written procedures for repair and overhaul of all major components and systems.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Likely includes diagnostic flowcharts and troubleshooting guides for common issues.
Routine Maintenance:
Procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and other regular servicing.
Component Removal And Installation:
Detailed instructions for disassembling and reassembling vehicle components.
Depth:
Expert-level. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex repairs and system overhauls. Equivalent to what factory-trained technicians use.
Visuals:
Features detailed exploded views, diagrams, and pictures to illustrate procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 (Lotus Type 910)
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (2174 cc)
Aspiration:
Turbocharged and Intercooled
Power Output Approx:
260-300 hp (depending on tune and market)
Engine Type:
V8 (Lotus Type 918)
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3506 cc) and 3.6 Liters (3662 cc)
Aspiration:
Twin-turbocharged and Intercooled
Power Output Approx:
350-355 hp (initial V8) and 375-400 hp (later V8 variants)
Torque Output Approx:
400-430 lb-ft
Injection:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPFI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sophisticated engine management systems.
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle (e.g., Renault UN1, later Essex/ZF variants for V8)
Transmission Type:
Possible availability of automatic transmission on some V8 models, though manual was primary.
Drive Layout:
Mid-engine, Rear-wheel Drive (MR)
Length:
Approx. 4355 mm (171.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1960 mm (77.2 in)
Height:
Approx. 1140 mm (44.9 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2464 mm (97.0 in)
Curb Weight Approx:
1450-1600 kg (3197-3527 lbs) - V8 models likely heavier than 4-cyl
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data for this era of exotic cars. Focus on chassis integrity and driver control.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, often with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).
Suspension Geometry:
Advanced suspension tuning for high-speed stability and cornering grip.
Occupant Protection:
Safety cage construction, integral roll-over protection, seat belts, and potentially driver/passenger airbags (depending on market and year).
Audio System:
Typically aftermarket or factory-installed radio/cassette/CD players common for the era. Manual will cover wiring and speaker installation/removal.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is a key active safety feature covered in detail.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical diagrams for all vehicle systems, crucial for diagnosis and repair of any electronic components.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Specifics depend on engine and oil type.
Major Service Interval:
Timing belt replacement (if applicable to specific engine variant) and other major inspections usually around 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 10W-50 or 5W-50 is commonly recommended for V8 engines, but manual will specify exact API/ACEA ratings.
Coolant Type:
Proprietary or high-quality ethylene glycol-based coolant with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) or automatic transmission fluid (ATF) as per manual. Often GL-4 or GL-5 rated gear oil for manual gearboxes.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, aging rubber hoses and seals, turbocharger seals (on V8), electrical gremlins due to complexity and age.
Performance Considerations:
Intercooler system maintenance, exhaust system integrity, fuel delivery system checks for optimal performance.
Legacy:
Lotus Cars is renowned for its pioneering work in automotive engineering, particularly lightweight construction, aerodynamic design, and superior handling characteristics pioneered by founder Colin Chapman.
Esprit Lineage:
The Esprit, introduced in 1976, evolved significantly over its production run, from the Giugiaro-designed wedge to the more rounded and aerodynamic lines of the S4 and V8 models, reflecting advancements in design and engineering.
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, England
Key Milestones:
The introduction of the V8 engine in 1996 marked a significant performance leap, aiming to compete directly with other V8-powered supercars.
Automotive Press:
The Esprit S4 V8 was generally well-received by automotive press for its performance, handling, and striking design, often praised as a true supercar contender.
Handling Praise:
Consistently lauded for its exceptional handling and feedback, characteristic of the Lotus brand.
