🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Lotus

Model:

Esprit Turbo

Model Variant:

Turbo

Production Years Covered:

1980-1987

Chassis Codes Implied:

Type 79 (early), Type 85, Type 88, Type 910

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Exotic sports car, often categorized as a grand tourer.

Key Competitors Era:

Ferrari 308 GTB/GTS, Porsche 911 SC/Carrera, Lamborghini Countach (though more extreme).

Design Philosophy:

Mid-engined, rear-wheel drive, lightweight construction, emphasis on handling and driver engagement.

Turbocharging Benefit:

Introduction of turbocharging significantly boosted performance compared to naturally aspirated variants, offering more power and torque.

Target Audience:

Lotus Esprit Turbo owners, mechanics specializing in Lotus vehicles, classic car restorers, and automotive enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Engine:

Yes

Transmission:

Yes

Electrical System:

Yes

Suspension And Steering:

Yes

Braking System:

Yes

Fuel System:

Yes

Cooling System:

Yes

Exhaust System:

Yes

Body And Chassis:

Yes

Interior Trim And Fittings:

Yes

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Yes

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided but indicated as extensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed disassembly, assembly, inspection, and rebuilding of the Lotus 907/910 engine and its components (pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, cylinder heads, block).

Engine Management And Ignition:

Covers fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch K-Jetronic), ignition timing, spark plugs, distributor, and related sensors.

Turbocharging System:

Detailed explanation of the turbocharger unit, wastegate, intercooler, plumbing, and associated maintenance and troubleshooting.

Cooling System:

Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, fan operation, and fluid specifications.

Fuel And Exhaust Systems:

Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, injectors, exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, and emissions control.

Transmission Manual:

Gearbox overhaul, clutch operation, gear shift mechanism, and fluid specifications for the Renault UN-1 5-speed transmission.

Suspension Front:

Double wishbone suspension, coil springs, shock absorbers, ball joints, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Suspension Rear:

Multi-link suspension, trailing arms, coil springs, shock absorbers, bushings, and alignment specifications.

Steering System:

Rack and pinion steering, steering column, tie rods, power steering system (if equipped), and component replacement.

Braking System Front:

Ventilated disc brakes, brake calipers, pads, rotors, hydraulic lines, and master cylinder.

Braking System Rear:

Disc brakes, brake calipers, pads, rotors, hydraulic lines, and parking brake mechanism.

Electrical System Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive wiring schematics for all vehicle systems including lighting, ignition, charging, instrumentation, and accessories.

Body And Chassis Construction:

Fiberglass body panel repair, chassis inspection, door mechanisms, hood/bonnet operation, and aerodynamic components.

Interior And Trim:

Seat removal and repair, dashboard instrumentation, headliner, door panels, and carpeting.

Heating And Air Conditioning:

HVAC system components, refrigerant servicing (where applicable), blower motor, and ducting.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant checks, brake fluid checks, tire pressure monitoring, and general inspection procedures.

Engine Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for complete engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, measurement, component replacement, and reassembly.

Turbocharger Rebuild And Replacement:

Detailed guidance on servicing or replacing the turbocharger unit.

Transmission Overhaul:

Complete guide to removing, disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling the gearbox.

Suspension Component Replacement:

Instructions for replacing ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, shock absorbers, and springs.

Brake System Service:

Procedure for replacing brake pads, rotors, bleeding the brake system, and servicing hydraulic components.

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for electrical faults using wiring diagrams and common problem identification.

Body Panel Repair:

Techniques for repairing minor damage and rust on the fiberglass body.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Specific instructions and timing marks for belt replacement to ensure correct engine timing.

Clutch Replacement:

Step-by-step guide for replacing the clutch assembly.

Wheel Alignment Adjustment:

Detailed specifications and procedures for adjusting front and rear wheel alignment.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and experienced enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

In-depth troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving mechanical, electrical, and fuel system issues.

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams illustrating disassembly, assembly, and component identification.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Precise measurements, clearances, torque specifications, and operating parameters for all components.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Printable Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Text Search:

Likely text-searchable PDF for easy information retrieval.

Operating Systems:

Compatible with Windows and MAC computers.

Usage License:

Lifetime usage, no expiry dates or renewal fees, can be installed on multiple devices.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

Lotus 910 (evolved from 907)

Configuration:

Mid-mounted, transverse, inline 4-cylinder

Displacement:

2.2 Liters (2174 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

95.2 mm x 76.2 mm

Compression Ratio:

7.5:1 (approximate for Turbo models)

Horsepower Est:

210-220 bhp @ 6000 rpm (depending on specific market and tune)

Torque Est:

220-230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (depending on specific market and tune)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)

Turbocharger Model:

Garrett AiResearch T3 (typical)

Boost Pressure:

Approximately 8-10 psi (regulated by wastegate)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transaxle

Gearbox Manufacturer:

Renault (UN-1)

Drive Layout:

Mid-engine, Rear-wheel drive

Gearbox Oil Type:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90, refer to manual for precise specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4250 mm (167.3 in)

Width:

Approx. 1750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1100 mm (43.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1100-1200 kg (2425-2645 lbs)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2438 mm (96.0 in)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era:

Early 1980s safety standards, focus on structural integrity and driver protection.

Braking System Type:

Four-wheel disc brakes, often ventilated at the front.

Suspension Handling:

Designed for excellent cornering stability and handling dynamics.

Seatbelts:

Standard three-point seatbelts.

Body Construction:

Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP) body over a galvanized steel backbone chassis.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically fitted with period-appropriate AM/FM radio and cassette player.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not standard or widely available during the early part of this production run, but may have been an option on later models.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features; focused on the driving experience.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months (consult manual for exact spec).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Crucial maintenance item; refer to manual for recommended interval (often around 30,000-50,000 miles or specific time).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise viscosity and API rating).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues List:

Fiberglass delamination, electrical gremlins (especially older wiring), turbocharger wear, suspension bushing degradation, clutch slave cylinder leaks, carburetor/fuel injection system tuning.

Turbo Maintenance:

Proper warm-up and cool-down procedures are critical for turbocharger longevity. Regular oil changes with correct oil are paramount.

Cooling System Care:

Regular flushing and replacement of coolant to prevent corrosion and maintain efficiency. Check hoses for cracks.

📚 Vehicle History

Lotus Philosophy:

Founded by Colin Chapman, emphasizing 'lightweight' and 'handling'.

Esprit Origins:

The Esprit was first introduced in 1976 as the M70, designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro.

Turbo Introduction:

The Turbo variant, powered by the 2.2L 910 engine, was introduced in 1980 to enhance performance and compete more effectively in the supercar market.

Design Updates Era:

Significant styling updates occurred during this period, most notably the 'Peter Stevens' redesign introduced in 1987, which modernized the car's appearance.

Production Location:

Hethel, Norfolk, United Kingdom

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Recognition:

Praised for its exceptional handling and performance relative to its era and competitors. Often featured in automotive magazines for its exotic appeal and driving dynamics.