1997 Lotus Esprit S4 Turbo - Black - 53,754km - 2.4L Turbocharged Inline-4, 5-Speed Manual
Overview
The Lotus Esprit is one of the most iconic British sports cars ever built, and the S4 generation (1993-1998) represents the final evolution of Colin Chapman's masterpiece before the model's discontinuation. This 1997 example is a genuine Esprit Turbo S4, powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged inline-4 engine producing approximately 300 horsepower, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The Esprit's wedge-shaped aluminium chassis and composite body have made it a timeless design statement for over three decades. The S4 variant brought refinements in handling, aerodynamics, and interior comfort while maintaining the raw, driver-focused character that defines the marque. With only 53,754 kilometres on the odometer, this is a remarkably low-mileage example of a car that has become increasingly collectible as values appreciate.
The exterior presents in black, a classic colour choice that emphasises the Esprit's aggressive lines and purposeful stance. The paint holds good gloss across all visible panels with minor stone chipping on the bonnet leading edge consistent with road use. Panel alignment is straight and even, with no obvious evidence of accident repair or respray. The distinctive pop-up headlights, characteristic of the Esprit design, are present and functional. The alloy wheels are fitted with Dunlop tyres showing reasonable tread depth. The overall presentation is clean and well-maintained, reflecting careful ownership and storage.
The interior is finished in a cream and black leather combination, a period-correct specification for the S4. The driver's seat and bolster show minimal wear consistent with the low mileage, and the leather retains good colour and suppleness. The dashboard is free from cracks or significant fading. The instrument cluster features traditional analogue gauges with a VDO speedometer and tachometer, clearly legible and functional. The steering wheel is a leather-rimmed sports unit in good condition. The centre console houses the manual gear selector with its characteristic leather-booted knob, and the cabin is equipped with air conditioning, power windows, and a CD player. The sunroof is present and operable. Tinted windows provide privacy and heat rejection. The overall cabin ambience is one of purposeful simplicity, focused entirely on the driving experience rather than luxury appointments.
The engine bay reveals a meticulously maintained turbocharged powerplant. The 2.4-litre SLT.2VHGAEA engine is clearly badged as a Turbo unit, with the snail-shaped turbocharger housing visible on the exhaust manifold and a finned intercooler mounted behind the front grille. Engine bay cleanliness is good, with no obvious oil seepage or fluid leaks. The battery is in serviceable condition. All fluid levels appear correct. The engine cover displays the factory Lotus badging and turbo designation. This is a genuine turbocharged Esprit, not a naturally aspirated variant, and the engineering specification is confirmed by the factory compliance plate.
Documentation is comprehensive. The vehicle is supplied with the original owner's manual, a full logbook with service stamps visible from the early ownership period, and current registration paperwork. The logbook provides a documented service history, adding confidence to the mechanical integrity of this low-mileage example. The presence of these original documents is increasingly rare for vehicles of this age and adds significant value to the package.
The Esprit S4 Turbo occupies a unique position in the sports car market. It is the final generation of the original Esprit lineage, a car that competed directly with Porsche 911s and Ferrari Testarossas during its production run. Values for low-mileage S4 examples have appreciated steadily over the past five years, with comparable 1997-1998 Turbo models in similar condition achieving prices in the $80,000 to $120,000 range at specialist auctions. This example, with its documented low mileage, comprehensive documentation, and clean presentation, sits well within the upper range of that market. For the collector seeking an affordable entry point into genuine British supercar ownership, or the enthusiast wanting a usable classic with authentic turbocharged performance, this Esprit S4 represents compelling value.
Features
* 2.4 Litre turbocharged inline-4 petrol engine, 300 bhp
* 5-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive
* Air conditioning
* Power windows
* Tinted windows
* Leather interior (cream and black)
* Alloy wheels with Dunlop tyres
* AUX / USB connectivity
* Sunroof
* CD player
* Original owner's manual
* Service logbook with stamps
* Current registration paperwork
* Pop-up headlights
* Sports leather steering wheel
* Finned intercooler
* Factory turbo badging
Specifications
Year: 1997
Make: Lotus
Model: Esprit S4
Body Type: Coupe
Colour: Black
Engine: 2.4L turbocharged inline-4 petrol
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
Odometer: 53,754 kilometres
Seats: 2
Steering: Right-hand drive
Doors: 2
Price Guide: $80,000 - $120,000 AUD (comparable low-mileage S4 Turbo examples)
VIN: SCC082910RHA61521
ENG No: LN910941028707C
If you have any questions relating to this vehicle, or if you would like to arrange a physical or virtual inspection, please contact Nicola directly on 0492 821 208
Sold unregistered
(Key #C13)
Lloyds stock #779086+1
#CCALL
#CCEUR
Location of item: 90-94 Bannister Road, Canning Vale, WA, Australia
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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