1996 Lotus Esprit S4S

Highlights

• One of only 25 S4S cars still on the road
• In current ownership since June 1998
• Comprehensive lifetime service history with Lotus accredited specialists
• Full suspension replacement by Esprit Engineering in 2017
• Racing Green Metallic exterior with Magnolia Leather interior

The Appeal

By the 1990s, the Esprit had matured into a particularly special car. The fourth generation of the legendary four-pot supercar aimed to take on the furious performance of the 300 series while offering a significantly more luxurious, comfortable cabin - all in a car that was still capable of baiting and beating the larger international concerns that rubbed shoulders with it in the showrooms.
This remarkably sure-footed, capable sports car is rare, too. Only 368 were ever built, only 72 of which entered the UK market. That's more the pity - anybody who's driven one of these typically falls very rapidly in love. Top-notch, slicked-back styling, pop-up headlights and excellent performance. Pure magic from the tiny Hethel concern that even the Italians could be envious of.
This fine example is a thoroughbred. Picked out in a Best-of-British Racing Green Metallic, on a fine Magnolia Leather interior, it's been with the current keeper since 1998, and has been beautifully cared for. If you've been seeking your perfect Anglocentric supercar, you've come across a perfect opportunity.

The History and Paperwork

• First registered in January 1996
• Purchased by the current owner in June 1998
• Current MOT expires March 2027 with no advisories
• Extensive documentation provides a record of every event associated with the car
• Continuous, comprehensive, lifetime service and maintenance history mainly provided by Lotus accredited specialists
• Current odometer reading of 70,280 miles is affected only by a brief period of odometer repair
• All necessary repairs completed when required, including full suspension replacement by Esprit Engineering in 2017 at 67,000 miles
• Unconfirmed information indicates that by 2025 25 remained licensed for road use or hold SORN status

The Condition

• One of only 25 S4S cars still on the road
• Bodywork in good condition with no significant dents or dings
• Paintwork carries light chips and marks, but nothing particularly intrusive
• No sign of any significant corrosion
• Pop-up lights are lifting correctly
• Glasswork and lenses in good order
• OZ split rim racing alloys, refurbished in 2017
• 245 and 285 section Michelin tyres
• Underside appears solid with strictly surface patina
• Handsome cabin with age-commensurate patina
• Some gentle cracking and wear to the bolsters
• Gentle marks to the wooden veneers, which carry only gentle cracks and marks
• All instruments are legible and clear
• AC system needs attention - required parts purchased and will be included in sale

The Mechanics

• 2.2-Litre Turbo 4-cylinder engine offering 301hp and 168mph
• Manual transmission with 5 gears
• Engine bay looks in good order
• Slight play in rear wheel bearing
• Improved gas flow dynamics and enlarged inlet ports and valves are the main cylinder head modifications
• A hybrid Garrett AiResearch T3/60 turbocharger and altered management programme offer even more torque over a wider spread
• Big ventilated discs and callipers are by Brembo
• The vendor reports that it's an excellent runner with no issues
• We've no reports of any mechanical faults

BEFORE YOU BUY

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