Hey Tim, I really like your videos and have always loved the Esprit. I’ve looked at a few over the last 12 months and after considering the v8 and various earlier models I came to exactly your conclusion. S4s represents the best of everything that is lotus. That engine is sublime. I am now the proud owner of a beautiful yellow S4s which is currently with a lotus specialist for a thorough once over before I start driving. Thanks for the vid. An very accurate appraisal in my view.
These were the supercar of my childhood growing up in the UK, star quality and not just from James Bond, Pretty Woman and Basic Instinct , thank for the great video and enjoy the car.
I looked at my car today and was over come by thankfulness. I am truly thankful to have this car that I fantasized about as a kid. Thanks so much for watching !!
Tims reviews are awesome...fwiw these shows should possibly be two parts ..youtube watchers are only used to 10 or15 minutes for each show. Great shows either way..
Jukka Angerpuro I had a lovely ‘89 model. It was my first Esprit! I’m not sure what part of the world you are in but in the US our 89 model year got the GM injection but no charge cooler. It was a fantastic combo and very light. That car felt unique among the Stevens / Thompson era cars as it had that light early car feel. The SE really moves thing along look Wise as well has having proper super car punch! Enjoy your SE!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Cool! I'm from Finland and actually I bought it from Sweden back in 2007. My SE have a charge cooler with Delco injection in stock. I have a plan to make an engine overhaul in next winter even thou it's raining wet snow right now. :) Thanks, I will enjoy it and I hope to see more your Esprit videos soon! I will set up an YT channel in near future too.
Thanks so much for taking the time to watch. Yeah, I actually prefer the sound of these to the V8. The V8 doesn’t make the prettiest of noises. Cheers!
Great video Tim! Love the S4S''!! I've owned my '89 Turbo for 23 years and counting and love it! I retuned my exhaust as well and tossed that 40lb lump of a muffler to the back corner of my shop. Only thing I have on my exhaust is a 12" hollow resonator, no cat, no muffler. Like yours it sounds amazing with all the pops and bangs. Keep up the good work!
I love your enthusiasm on the Lotus Esprit models. It truly is a British supercar. Hopefully, Lotus will build a replacement for this gorgeous exotic car.
I too am hoping I have the opportunity to own a NEW Esprit. It would be fantastic. I have driven several Evoras and that car has developed well. Cheers and thanks so much for watching!
My dream car since i was a kid. Thanks for sharing...i would like to drive one some day. I almost bought a Sport 300 and a S4s some years ago but because of the taxs, and homologations in my country, i gave up...and you right the S4s is the best only the french gearbox is crap. Cheers from Portugal and keep the good work! Congratulations for the great car!
Tim, I really enjoy your Esprit content and videos in general because you provide such excellent outside footage of the car showing off how beautiful the design is. Also, the car is framed nicely by the scenery. The editing and music is great and the wide angle lens creates more space to see the car and the surroundings. Great job. I did own a GT3 as I’m in the UK and put 70,000miles on the car over 9 years. I enjoyed the data on chassis stiffness and production numbers. Great job. Thank you.
msl 2003 man. I really appreciate this feedback. Believe it or not none of this is as easy as it looks. Capturing the car, relating the sensation of speed, remembering what you want to say. It’s all much tougher than I had imagined a few years back when I decided to do the channel. I write for several publications and it is so much easier 😂. The GT3 seems like it might be right up there with the S4S in terms of greatness. The lightweight nature and 2.0 engine is unique and wonderful. They made very few and it certainly seems like we missed out by not getting to enjoy them. Clocking 70k on one brings a huge smile to my face. So many cars that I purchase have been enjoyed far too little by their owners. About a year ago I picked up a Launch Edition 4C coupe with 1800 miles on it in 3 years. I paid half of sticker. In the states there are many V8 Esprits that have 5-10k miles on them and I can’t help thinking what a shame the car was never enjoyed. I can’t thank you enough for watching, I hope to keep bringing better and better videos to the channel. Stay tuned! Cheers!
JimZRyd thanks so much! I appreciate you having grace for the clipper audio during the “wing” discussion. Nothing I could do with it and really wanted to use it. Hey, I’ve seen worse 😂 . Cheers !
Tim, Great video! To pick a nit, 5th gear is just fine for highway passing 5th gear boost will get you past traffic in no time. Great note about the body stiffness that some see as a negative. I have been really surprised though how extremely comfortable the Esprit is, It has to have 6 feet of leg room and the inherent recline of the seating is perfect, at least for me. It is a fantastic road trip car. The only thing uncomfortable after 2.5 hours on the highway were my ears. The 4 cyl makes a great sound.
Robert Joyce yes, I see the flexible nature of the chassis as a great things in terms of ride comfort. This is one of, if not THE most comfortable exotic you will find. Yes, 5th gear will do just fine. I felt like I should unleash the beast a bit more for the video. Cheers and thanks so much for watching
Man - as someone who sat on the sideline waaay too long, I'd tell you this, Terry - Find one that ticks the right boxes for you and start enjoying it. I've had my V8 for one full month now and the only regret I have is the 15 years that I could've spent driving one. You won't regret it!
Tim, I've just rediscovered your channel, needed the 🔔 on!! And I'm immediately reminded why I love it. Thanks for reigniting my passion for the Lotus Esprit too. I'm so going to buy one. AND then go chasing "your" wheels.
This legitimately was just what I needed to read today. Thankful for each subscriber. I know of 18 people who have bought Esprits on my recommendation. Two are very prominent industry guys and all are very happy they did so. I am stoked to hear you are on the path to ownership too!! Cheers!
Dariusz Szulc. Thanks man. Tried some new mics on this one. Worked great with the Nikon but settings were messed on the Sony. I’ll keep at it my friend. Cheers!
Richard Whaley excellent question. No. I hate it and Am in the process of deleting it in favour of the simple recirculation valve. You shouldn’t do a BOV on this car no matter the boost level. The recirc already gives you a nice flutter . This is a blitz and set for high boost blow off. It also leaks boost and adds needless complications
Of all the Esprit' that came out, this is my favourite too. However I was mocked back in the day for rejecting the V8, that's not to say I don't love them but the S4S would have been my choice. I worked on a very neglected S2 back in the late 80's and I was blown away by the engineering gone into this car. It was my gaffer's/boss' car so I helped him when we weren't busy. It was white, like the 007 car but it had a red leather interior. The cassette deck was near the rear view mirror, in the roof. Inboard discs at the rear and so many other features I forgot until now. Loving your show!!
Clint Thompson lucky for you the best of cars are staying relatively affordable. Here is to you one day piloting an ESPRIT!! Thanks for you comment and for watching !!
If you have garage space and you have the slightest interest in the marque, there is no reason NOT to get one. I plan to end up losing less money than on a used Kia with the Esprit. I will tell you I have around $35k in my family's fleet of 3 cars and one of them is an Esprit S4s. You can barely get one well equipped Camry for that. That said, If you want one with the SWWWWEEEEETT OZ Futura like Tim's you'll need an extra 5-6 grand and about 2 years of patient and persistent looking.
Robert Joyce I found this set of Futuras from a gent in Pennsylvania. I had to pay for them but they radically change the look and whole presence of the car
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage They made a 17 and 17 set for just the S4s and a set of 17 and 18 for the early V8s if I'm not mistaken. Incredibly rare especially in the US.
I was RIGHT behind a British Racing Green Esprit S2 here in Scottsdale the other day. I LOVE the Esprit period, but I LOVE that earlier wedge design(it was smoking through the hatch a little bit hehe)
The early wedge is fantastic as well. I think of it as an entirely different car. Thanks for watching and for sharing your Esprit Spotting. They are rare, and yes, early ones do tend to smoke a bit more :) cheers!
Any one who 6.5 or 1.90-1.95cm will never ever fit inside that car. I tried.. its an possible.. even if you will do that, you wouldn’t able to move you feet at all, not possible to drive, tall guys just believe me 😉 but car is amazing! Big respect ✊
Hot damn that sounds good. One of my absolute favorite cars of that era. I remember an article in Sports Car Illustrated of this car when it came out finished in a cool shade of blue, great shots etched in my memory. The proportions and those OZ wheels were just so perfect. I can’t believe these haven’t taken off in value yet. Off to search listings.... 😆
Lucore Auto and LucoreRacing aww. Thanks so much. I needed this comment this morning. I was pretty happy with the car noises on this one. Many times even using a stereo pair of mics to get ambience it doesn’t really do the car justice. I feel like this captures the aural pleasure of the 910s pretty well. Cheers and thanks so much for watching and for your comment !
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage that exhaust modification totally changes the enjoyment of the car. And let's be clear here, those cars are gorgeous and a joy to drive STOCK. Now.. windows down in the tunnels, trees, and anywhere away from small children.
Love the Lotus content and I would love to see a video talking about how difficult or easy it is to maintain the Esprit. With it being as rare as it is I would imagine getting parts would be difficult and the would be my main worry.
Brandon most parts are available. Watch my V8 video as well, I discuss several resources across these two. I will be doing a couple more videos on this car and the build on my S4 is on going.
I am currently selling my Cobra Replica and a couple other cars so that I can buy and Esprit. I wish I had bought the Esprit when I bought my Cobra, but hindsight is 2020. I will have to say I really enjoyed my Cobra, but I have wanted an Esprit since I was a kid.
Joey Shreve I have driven a hand full of cobra replicas (some good and some not so good) and for me the Esprit is definitely a better choice. The shape, the performance, the history. For me that emotional connection trumps everything. The only thing that can compete for the Esprit is an F40 or an XJ220 and both of those have a lot more zeros in the price :) . Cheers and thanks so much for taking the time to comment !
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Mine is a West Coast Cobra, so longer and wider that most, with an SVO460 with around 550HP which makes it fun and still comfortable, but I get tired of the exhaust smell and the lack of a roof. I have always wanted an Esprit and have watched many Esprit video's, I have ridden in one and can't wait. Looking at a V8 Esprit myself.
There are 3 US market cars in this colour combination. I believe there are 14-15 world wide in S4S trim. Everything is for sale but I assure you it wouldn’t be a price you would be happy with. Maybe once my S4 project is complete I will feel differently. Cheers and thanks for watching !
What a great video! As an ex-pat from the UK and previous ‘89 Turbo SE owner I have to say it’s really nice seeing one being driven like it was stolen state-side. So often, where I am at least, I see convoys of corvettes and mustangs driven at 65. What’s the point?! Thanks for showing what this car is best at.
I had the 1994 S4, It was a great car, Bad AC, Too low tot he ground and wouldn't go over speed bumps in parking lots. Mine had the European pack which had twin pipes and slightly more HP. didn't like broken motor mounts, tires that lasted 15k miles and spongy clutch. Would buy it again though. Don't like today's lotus except for the upcoming new Electric one! Lotus still calls me and updates me on the latest models. oh one more thing mine had a 10disk CD player which always skipped! :)
Hi Tim, I just subscribed as I think that your videos are the best! Of the quality of your S4S, a beautiful car. I am in the beginning stages of having an Esprit, I like to learn so lot's of research to determine what suits me best. I am now between an S4 to a later model V8. An interesting and informative video from "Wizards Garage" on a customers S4S teaches me to be wary of aftermarket chips or reprograming of the ECU, already hotter than the S4, too much boost on his car. Anyway, the look is also important to me and I want to ask, What Interior Lotus factory color is yours, Raffia? Tan? I like it and thank you for your reply.
Thanks so much for your kind words! My interior is Tan with Parchment piping. A couple other things to consider are : 1. What is most important to you overall thrust or maintenance cost. The 4 is always going to be less expensive long term and is arguably the more exotic engine choice. Performance wise both are adequate but the V8 has lots more off the line ability. The 01 and newer V8 comes with AP brakes and adjustable suspension so, that is the one to have it a V8 is the target. The S4S is certainly the pick of the litter for rarity and effectiveness. The only foible is the brakes. The master cylinder and ABS module is so bad. I am going to do a custom set up on my other S4. If I am pleased with it we will go that direction on this car as well and I will let you know with a video update! Happy hunting! Thanks for subscribing my friend .
Don't know if this particular model ever came to the US but couple of years ago I saw an Esprit GT3 when I was on vacation in Europe and I thought that was a pretty rare!
frioglobal so rare. Here in the states there have only been two available for sale. They are wonderful cars. Each of the S4S cylinder heads are stamped “S300” so this is close enough right 😉. Cheers and thanks so much for watching !!
The thing you have to remember is that today's sports cars have been ruined, as road cars, because they are designed to drive well on track. Sports cars from the 70's, such as the Esprit, were designed to be driven long distances, hundreds of miles a day, so were designed to be fast and comfortable, as well as having boot (trunk) space. "Fancy a trip to the Riviera darling? Ok, pop your bags in the Esprit". Before the TGV, the fastest way to get there (in the 70's, the Gendarmerie were more interested in how well you drove, rather than how fast, if you drove well at 100-120mph, they would just sit and watch) was by fast car (remember this was before turbo diesels were fast and economical).
well said. That bygone era is sorely missed. I would trade all the 4000 lbs isolating cars, Netfilx and Facebook to have it back. I really would. Cheers and thanks so much for watching!
Great vid, followed your advice and got a 2 of these cars. I do tend to agree the S4s was the ultimate 4 banger Esprit. The GT3 is better inside but you sure do miss 60 horse power that the 2.2 gives you, plus a bit more drivability at low end. Fantastic cars, +1 subscriber
Hi Tim, I wanted to know if this S4S had the cats deleted along with the "southern" exhaust upgrade you mentioned. It sounds awesome! But in Cali CATs are very much required :(
They offer a hi flow cat option that should be able to be streetable. Additionally, any car can be registered in South Dakota. That may be a good option for you if you drive more vintage cars.
I have a local gent named Homer who is currently retrimming my ‘94 S4. I think it will really be something special. We was trained in the vintage upholstery arts and has an eye for detail. He has recently done a Miura and a few other special cars. Excited to show off more of his handy work.
@@katopeters9980 cheers for that! I appreciate you taking the time to comment. I have videos on my V8 and am doing a series on a barn find s4 I am rehabbing . Love the website. It is an invaluable asset to anyone who loves Esprits!!
This car is gorgeous! I was disappointed when Lotus put the V8 in. It just didn't seem right for the car to me. The 4 cylinder is a more impressive package. Can I ask how tall you are? I don't think I would be able to squeeze in at 6'2" and, um, a bit wide.
I am 6’2” , 33”inseam , 265. I fit easily in the 93.5 and up cars. Barely in the earlier cars (seat mod required) . Yes, the 4 cylinder is the power plant of choice in these cars. Cheers and thanks so much for watching. Hit the subscribe button , I would really appreciate it!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Wow, I am surprised. We are very close in size. I am about 20 lbs heavier, but this gives me hope...lol! Better cut down a few burgers and start saving. Thanks!
I agree that Esprit is better with a 4 cylinder engine but Sport 300 is the best Esprit. It is faster than a V8 and has the best handling. I also prefer the Stevens styling than the last facelift.
Sport 300 is peak Esprit, S4S is nearly as sweet and there are 300+ so it’s attainable. That being said, I will have an S300 one day :) cheers and thanks for watching
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Yes S4S is next best Esprit and yours is in beautiful british racing green color. Love it! I just bought a red Esprit SE myself. :)
Sorry , I thought this comment was on my V8 video. This car has a South West Lotus Centre exhaust, cat delete and single muffler. They have them built specifically for S4S and S300. If you watch the video there is more context. It’s very similar to the quicksilver or Larini exhaust. Thanks for watching !
A Lotus V8 or an LS? Either is possible. The v8 shifts the mass slightly higher which changes the feel a bit. The Lotus V8 is designed to fit nicely in the Lotus X Frame
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage thanks so much for the tip I’m from Brasil and would like to ask a few more detailed questions is there a more easier contact method I could trouble you for Thanks
The Esprits have Renault transmissions. These transmissions cannot handle big torque (as Fifth Gear proved). So when Lotus first developed the twin turbo V8 engine, it produced 500hp and big torque. But guess what, the trans couldn't handle it, so they had no choice but to turn the boost down and lower the compression of the flat plane V8 engine, which meant the engine now only made 350hp. Stupid decision imo. If you have a transmission that can't cope with torque, then ditch the turbo's and just have a wonderful naturally aspirated flat plane crank V8 with as high compression as possible and a nice high rev limit. Now THAT would have been an amazing Esprit. Instead, the twin turbo V8 Esprit is an underpowered lazy car just to ensure the trans doesn't poop itself. So I agree with you on the S4S with the 2.2 turbo being the one to have. Did you guys in the states get the Esprit GT3?
We didn’t get the gt3 2.0l here. I would love to import one in the next few years. I am really enjoying this green car and currently doing a full restoration on a 1994 S4. These are brilliant cars . Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts! I would be honoured if you would hit subscribe ! Cheers 🍻
RT: Hey Louis George I have a good idea. We do a passenger car like this one but no water jackets.. electric heat . Asian cars done ,, vw gone to.. don't take dollar, Eruo, aaiN currency.. see you soon.. there was an imposter Yesterday 45 year old you, Henry, and William. See you soon buddy.. done with my deployment..
@@renatorotunno5434 it’s possible you are unfamiliar with the US spec which does NOT have the flairs that Europe got. Same power, same S300 head etc. ciao!
Lotus is a car every young man should own one time in his life, the best experience. Love the car give me many great memories
Yes! Many happy memories in this and other Esprits
Such an all around great car. When used electric cars are too expensive to own and maintain, cars like this Lotus will still be around!
The Noble Pixel I couldn’t agree more. These are so fantastic. You can work on these yourself. They are brilliant cars. Thanks for watching!
Hey Tim, I really like your videos and have always loved the Esprit. I’ve looked at a few over the last 12 months and after considering the v8 and various earlier models I came to exactly your conclusion. S4s represents the best of everything that is lotus. That engine is sublime. I am now the proud owner of a beautiful yellow S4s which is currently with a lotus specialist for a thorough once over before I start driving. Thanks for the vid. An very accurate appraisal in my view.
This makes me so happy. You made the right decision. They will only go up and value and are absolutely brilliant to drive . Enjoy!
These were the supercar of my childhood growing up in the UK, star quality and not just from James Bond, Pretty Woman and Basic Instinct , thank for the great video and enjoy the car.
I looked at my car today and was over come by thankfulness. I am truly thankful to have this car that I fantasized about as a kid. Thanks so much for watching !!
Why doesn't this channel have 100K subscribers? Great job Tim!
Energytrader I’m working on it. One day 🤞
Tims reviews are awesome...fwiw these shows should possibly be two parts ..youtube watchers are only used to 10 or15 minutes for each show. Great shows either way..
The camera, and audio alone keep me from smashing the sub button.
Excellent video Tim! Thanks! And you are right, I love the Esprit. Proud owner of 1989 SE model.
Jukka Angerpuro I had a lovely ‘89 model. It was my first Esprit! I’m not sure what part of the world you are in but in the US our 89 model year got the GM injection but no charge cooler. It was a fantastic combo and very light. That car felt unique among the Stevens / Thompson era cars as it had that light early car feel. The SE really moves thing along look Wise as well has having proper super car punch! Enjoy your SE!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Cool! I'm from Finland and actually I bought it from Sweden back in 2007. My SE have a charge cooler with Delco injection in stock. I have a plan to make an engine overhaul in next winter even thou it's raining wet snow right now. :) Thanks, I will enjoy it and I hope to see more your Esprit videos soon! I will set up an YT channel in near future too.
Not many videos showing the car from the outside while driving it. Good video, beautiful car. One of the best looking classic sports cars.
Thanks so much for watching and for your comment!
Sounds Absolutly wicked mate..as good as a V8..
Thanks so much for taking the time to watch. Yeah, I actually prefer the sound of these to the V8. The V8 doesn’t make the prettiest of noises. Cheers!
Great video Tim! Love the S4S''!! I've owned my '89 Turbo for 23 years and counting and love it! I retuned my exhaust as well and tossed that 40lb lump of a muffler to the back corner of my shop. Only thing I have on my exhaust is a 12" hollow resonator, no cat, no muffler. Like yours it sounds amazing with all the pops and bangs. Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much for watching! Enjoy your Esprit!
I love your enthusiasm on the Lotus Esprit models. It truly is a British supercar. Hopefully, Lotus will build a replacement for this gorgeous exotic car.
I too am hoping I have the opportunity to own a NEW Esprit. It would be fantastic. I have driven several Evoras and that car has developed well. Cheers and thanks so much for watching!
My dream car since i was a kid. Thanks for sharing...i would like to drive one some day. I almost bought a Sport 300 and a S4s some years ago but because of the taxs, and homologations in my country, i gave up...and you right the S4s is the best only the french gearbox is crap. Cheers from Portugal and keep the good work! Congratulations for the great car!
lotus esprit I very much hope you get to drive one some day! Thanks so much for your kind words and for watching! Cheers!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage thanks for your kind words Tim
Tim, I really enjoy your Esprit content and videos in general because you provide such excellent outside footage of the car showing off how beautiful the design is. Also, the car is framed nicely by the scenery. The editing and music is great and the wide angle lens creates more space to see the car and the surroundings. Great job. I did own a GT3 as I’m in the UK and put 70,000miles on the car over 9 years. I enjoyed the data on chassis stiffness and production numbers. Great job. Thank you.
msl 2003 man. I really appreciate this feedback. Believe it or not none of this is as easy as it looks. Capturing the car, relating the sensation of speed, remembering what you want to say. It’s all much tougher than I had imagined a few years back when I decided to do the channel. I write for several publications and it is so much easier 😂. The GT3 seems like it might be right up there with the S4S in terms of greatness. The lightweight nature and 2.0 engine is unique and wonderful. They made very few and it certainly seems like we missed out by not getting to enjoy them. Clocking 70k on one brings a huge smile to my face. So many cars that I purchase have been enjoyed far too little by their owners. About a year ago I picked up a Launch Edition 4C coupe with 1800 miles on it in 3 years. I paid half of sticker. In the states there are many V8 Esprits that have 5-10k miles on them and I can’t help thinking what a shame the car was never enjoyed. I can’t thank you enough for watching, I hope to keep bringing better and better videos to the channel. Stay tuned! Cheers!
One of the best review of my dream car i saw ! thanks
Great to hear!! Thanks for the comment and THANKS for watching
I always liked the look of the mid mounted wing
Sweet video and review Tim! Loved the rolling shots👍🏻
JimZRyd thanks so much! I appreciate you having grace for the clipper audio during the “wing” discussion. Nothing I could do with it and really wanted to use it. Hey, I’ve seen worse 😂 . Cheers !
Tim, Great video! To pick a nit, 5th gear is just fine for highway passing 5th gear boost will get you past traffic in no time. Great note about the body stiffness that some see as a negative. I have been really surprised though how extremely comfortable the Esprit is, It has to have 6 feet of leg room and the inherent recline of the seating is perfect, at least for me. It is a fantastic road trip car. The only thing uncomfortable after 2.5 hours on the highway were my ears. The 4 cyl makes a great sound.
Robert Joyce yes, I see the flexible nature of the chassis as a great things in terms of ride comfort. This is one of, if not THE most comfortable exotic you will find. Yes, 5th gear will do just fine. I felt like I should unleash the beast a bit more for the video. Cheers and thanks so much for watching
That sport 300 L63 SOO was my dads one, Amazing car
Brilliant ! They are beautiful and very rare
I need a Espirit in my life. I love the V8's but the 4cyl are just awesome!
Yes, the V8 are brilliant as well but for the truly special Esprit, the 4 cylinder is an essential ingredient. Cheers and thanks for watching !
Man - as someone who sat on the sideline waaay too long, I'd tell you this, Terry - Find one that ticks the right boxes for you and start enjoying it. I've had my V8 for one full month now and the only regret I have is the 15 years that I could've spent driving one. You won't regret it!
Gorgeous car, Tim! Love your videos. Keep it up
Vincenzo Landino thanks so much for watching and for your comment! Cheers!
Tim, I've just rediscovered your channel, needed the 🔔 on!! And I'm immediately reminded why I love it. Thanks for reigniting my passion for the Lotus Esprit too. I'm so going to buy one. AND then go chasing "your" wheels.
This legitimately was just what I needed to read today. Thankful for each subscriber. I know of 18 people who have bought Esprits on my recommendation. Two are very prominent industry guys and all are very happy they did so. I am stoked to hear you are on the path to ownership too!! Cheers!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Great to know! Love your work man. Thank you.
Audio all over the place :/ . Car looks awesome and so did the drive by shots.
Dariusz Szulc. Thanks man. Tried some new mics on this one. Worked great with the Nikon but settings were messed on the Sony. I’ll keep at it my friend. Cheers!
great vid and review. Beautiful S4S
Thanks so much for watching!
Still admiring this car. Question: Who manufactures the Blow Off Valve and do you like it compared to others? Thanks.
Richard Whaley excellent question. No. I hate it and Am in the process of deleting it in favour of the simple recirculation valve. You shouldn’t do a BOV on this car no matter the boost level. The recirc already gives you a nice flutter . This is a blitz and set for high boost blow off. It also leaks boost and adds needless complications
Beautiful ride.
Thanks for watching !
Of all the Esprit' that came out, this is my favourite too. However I was mocked back in the day for rejecting the V8, that's not to say I don't love them but the S4S would have been my choice. I worked on a very neglected S2 back in the late 80's and I was blown away by the engineering gone into this car. It was my gaffer's/boss' car so I helped him when we weren't busy. It was white, like the 007 car but it had a red leather interior. The cassette deck was near the rear view mirror, in the roof. Inboard discs at the rear and so many other features I forgot until now. Loving your show!!
Thanks so much for your kind words! I love the S4S and am convinced more and more each day that it is the perfect Esprit ! Cheers!
I'd love to drive one someday, doubt I could ever justify owning one but yeah, I've loved the design of these forever now!
Clint Thompson lucky for you the best of cars are staying relatively affordable. Here is to you one day piloting an ESPRIT!! Thanks for you comment and for watching !!
If you have garage space and you have the slightest interest in the marque, there is no reason NOT to get one. I plan to end up losing less money than on a used Kia with the Esprit. I will tell you I have around $35k in my family's fleet of 3 cars and one of them is an Esprit S4s. You can barely get one well equipped Camry for that. That said, If you want one with the SWWWWEEEEETT OZ Futura like Tim's you'll need an extra 5-6 grand and about 2 years of patient and persistent looking.
Robert Joyce I found this set of Futuras from a gent in Pennsylvania. I had to pay for them but they radically change the look and whole presence of the car
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage They made a 17 and 17 set for just the S4s and a set of 17 and 18 for the early V8s if I'm not mistaken. Incredibly rare especially in the US.
I was RIGHT behind a British Racing Green Esprit S2 here in Scottsdale the other day. I LOVE the Esprit period, but I LOVE that earlier wedge design(it was smoking through the hatch a little bit hehe)
The early wedge is fantastic as well. I think of it as an entirely different car. Thanks for watching and for sharing your Esprit Spotting. They are rare, and yes, early ones do tend to smoke a bit more :) cheers!
Any one who 6.5 or 1.90-1.95cm will never ever fit inside that car. I tried.. its an possible.. even if you will do that, you wouldn’t able to move you feet at all, not possible to drive, tall guys just believe me 😉 but car is amazing! Big respect ✊
Sasha Voodoo live I am 6.2 and am about at the limit. If you were skinnier than me maybe 6.5 would work. Thanks so much for watching! Cheers!
Tim's Enthusiast Garage thank you for sharing with us! Your car is amazing 👌
Hot damn that sounds good. One of my absolute favorite cars of that era. I remember an article in Sports Car Illustrated of this car when it came out finished in a cool shade of blue, great shots etched in my memory. The proportions and those OZ wheels were just so perfect. I can’t believe these haven’t taken off in value yet. Off to search listings.... 😆
GREAT video man! Definitely love that car and you can easily tell in the video that you do too. Also... SNAP CRACKLE POP! BANG BANG BANG!
Lucore Auto and LucoreRacing aww. Thanks so much. I needed this comment this morning. I was pretty happy with the car noises on this one. Many times even using a stereo pair of mics to get ambience it doesn’t really do the car justice. I feel like this captures the aural pleasure of the 910s pretty well. Cheers and thanks so much for watching and for your comment !
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage that exhaust modification totally changes the enjoyment of the car. And let's be clear here, those cars are gorgeous and a joy to drive STOCK. Now.. windows down in the tunnels, trees, and anywhere away from small children.
An interesting S4S just went up on BAT. Consider the rarity, 14k miles. I'm watching.
They are THE Esprit to have IMHO. I’ll never sell mine. Luckily those have been pretty weak on BaT. Let me know if you win it. Cheers!
Love the Lotus content and I would love to see a video talking about how difficult or easy it is to maintain the Esprit. With it being as rare as it is I would imagine getting parts would be difficult and the would be my main worry.
Brandon most parts are available. Watch my V8 video as well, I discuss several resources across these two. I will be doing a couple more videos on this car and the build on my S4 is on going.
A lot of parts are taken from other manufacturers models. There are a lot of people willing to help keep these cars on the road.
I am currently selling my Cobra Replica and a couple other cars so that I can buy and Esprit. I wish I had bought the Esprit when I bought my Cobra, but hindsight is 2020. I will have to say I really enjoyed my Cobra, but I have wanted an Esprit since I was a kid.
Joey Shreve I have driven a hand full of cobra replicas (some good and some not so good) and for me the Esprit is definitely a better choice. The shape, the performance, the history. For me that emotional connection trumps everything. The only thing that can compete for the Esprit is an F40 or an XJ220 and both of those have a lot more zeros in the price :) . Cheers and thanks so much for taking the time to comment !
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Mine is a West Coast Cobra, so longer and wider that most, with an SVO460 with around 550HP which makes it fun and still comfortable, but I get tired of the exhaust smell and the lack of a roof. I have always wanted an Esprit and have watched many Esprit video's, I have ridden in one and can't wait. Looking at a V8 Esprit myself.
this car is underrated and undervalued!
Very much so on both accounts. Thanks so much for watching, I do hope you will subscribe. Cheers !
My fav car growing up
Mine too
This is exactly the car I am looking to buy… I hope there is another one out there or Tim do you want to sell?
There are 3 US market cars in this colour combination. I believe there are 14-15 world wide in S4S trim. Everything is for sale but I assure you it wouldn’t be a price you would be happy with. Maybe once my S4 project is complete I will feel differently. Cheers and thanks for watching !
I have one!
Simply Raw pleasure.
I have been driving mine this week. It’s easy to forget how special they are. Truly exceptional cars. Cheers and thanks for watching !
There are 8 in Turkey .I hope one will be mine 😍 🇹🇷🇹🇷🇹🇷
Yes! I hope you will be blessed with the opportunity one day. They are great !!
What a great video! As an ex-pat from the UK and previous ‘89 Turbo SE owner I have to say it’s really nice seeing one being driven like it was stolen state-side. So often, where I am at least, I see convoys of corvettes and mustangs driven at 65. What’s the point?! Thanks for showing what this car is best at.
Cheers, this comment made my weekend! Cars like this are to be properly driven 😁
I had the 1994 S4, It was a great car, Bad AC, Too low tot he ground and wouldn't go over speed bumps in parking lots. Mine had the European pack which had twin pipes and slightly more HP. didn't like broken motor mounts, tires that lasted 15k miles and spongy clutch. Would buy it again though. Don't like today's lotus except for the upcoming new Electric one! Lotus still calls me and updates me on the latest models. oh one more thing mine had a 10disk CD player which always skipped! :)
These cars are so beautiful! I have the money to easily buy one but I don't know the maintenance cost on these cars
Maintenance costs have been very affordable for me over the past 20 years of ownership. Significantly less than the Porsche or Ferrari models.
Excellent !
Hi Tim, I just subscribed as I think that your videos are the best! Of the quality of your S4S, a beautiful car. I am in the beginning stages of having an Esprit, I like to learn so lot's of research to determine what suits me best. I am now between an S4 to a later model V8. An interesting and informative video from "Wizards Garage" on a customers S4S teaches me to be wary of aftermarket chips or reprograming of the ECU, already hotter than the S4, too much boost on his car. Anyway, the look is also important to me and I want to ask, What Interior Lotus factory color is yours, Raffia? Tan? I like it and thank you for your reply.
Thanks so much for your kind words! My interior is Tan with Parchment piping. A couple other things to consider are : 1. What is most important to you overall thrust or maintenance cost. The 4 is always going to be less expensive long term and is arguably the more exotic engine choice. Performance wise both are adequate but the V8 has lots more off the line ability. The 01 and newer V8 comes with AP brakes and adjustable suspension so, that is the one to have it a V8 is the target. The S4S is certainly the pick of the litter for rarity and effectiveness. The only foible is the brakes. The master cylinder and ABS module is so bad. I am going to do a custom set up on my other S4. If I am pleased with it we will go that direction on this car as well and I will let you know with a video update! Happy hunting! Thanks for subscribing my friend .
Don't know if this particular model ever came to the US but couple of years ago I saw an Esprit GT3 when I was on vacation in Europe and I thought that was a pretty rare!
GT3 with the 2.0 never came to the states. Very light and brilliant cars!
Definitely agree.
Excellent video! The Sport 300 is the best all-round though... ;-)
frioglobal so rare. Here in the states there have only been two available for sale. They are wonderful cars. Each of the S4S cylinder heads are stamped “S300” so this is close enough right 😉. Cheers and thanks so much for watching !!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage you are very welcome! I am fortunate enough to own Sport 300 n.25 and it's with me in Toronto, if you ever come this way...
The thing you have to remember is that today's sports cars have been ruined, as road cars, because they are designed to drive well on track. Sports cars from the 70's, such as the Esprit, were designed to be driven long distances, hundreds of miles a day, so were designed to be fast and comfortable, as well as having boot (trunk) space. "Fancy a trip to the Riviera darling? Ok, pop your bags in the Esprit". Before the TGV, the fastest way to get there (in the 70's, the Gendarmerie were more interested in how well you drove, rather than how fast, if you drove well at 100-120mph, they would just sit and watch) was by fast car (remember this was before turbo diesels were fast and economical).
well said. That bygone era is sorely missed. I would trade all the 4000 lbs isolating cars, Netfilx and Facebook to have it back. I really would. Cheers and thanks so much for watching!
Great!
Martin Putz thanks for watching
Great vid, followed your advice and got a 2 of these cars. I do tend to agree the S4s was the ultimate 4 banger Esprit. The GT3 is better inside but you sure do miss 60 horse power that the 2.2 gives you, plus a bit more drivability at low end. Fantastic cars, +1 subscriber
Thanks so much for watching and for sharing your ownership thoughts
Hi Tim, I wanted to know if this S4S had the cats deleted along with the "southern" exhaust upgrade you mentioned. It sounds awesome! But in Cali CATs are very much required :(
They offer a hi flow cat option that should be able to be streetable. Additionally, any car can be registered in South Dakota. That may be a good option for you if you drive more vintage cars.
Missed the GT3 off your list. Only 196 made.
yeatmc we didn’t get the GT3 in the states. I should have included it as it is a truly GREAT Esprit. I have considered importing one. Fantastic cars.
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Maybe you'd like mine. There is a video on channel "yeatmc".
who does your leather work? I have an 87 G body and need some love for the interior
I have a local gent named Homer who is currently retrimming my ‘94 S4. I think it will really be something special. We was trained in the vintage upholstery arts and has an eye for detail. He has recently done a Miura and a few other special cars. Excited to show off more of his handy work.
No, it doesn't get any better.
Frozen Car Guy thanks for watching man.
Awesome 😎
Sounds like a rally car!
Tim. Can I get one those "Add Lightness" Ts with the S4s on there for Christmas?
Perhaps . DM me on Instagram ! Cheers
Hope you've been on Lotus Esprit World!
Regularly. When I started owning Esprits 20 years ago that site was new. So was Esprit Fact File . Cheers and thanks for watching !!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage yeah, I started it around 2001. If you've got anything you'll like to put on there, email the site and I'll pick it up!
@@katopeters9980 cheers for that! I appreciate you taking the time to comment. I have videos on my V8 and am doing a series on a barn find s4 I am rehabbing . Love the website. It is an invaluable asset to anyone who loves Esprits!!
Love it!
This thing is GORGEOUS!! Would love to give it a little wash and film once it's finally warm! :)
Bikini Carwash I just walked outside. It was literally snowing. What the heck?!?
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Yeah Ohio isn't being kind to us yet, but some days soon!
This car is gorgeous! I was disappointed when Lotus put the V8 in. It just didn't seem right for the car to me. The 4 cylinder is a more impressive package. Can I ask how tall you are? I don't think I would be able to squeeze in at 6'2" and, um, a bit wide.
I am 6’2” , 33”inseam , 265. I fit easily in the 93.5 and up cars. Barely in the earlier cars (seat mod required) . Yes, the 4 cylinder is the power plant of choice in these cars. Cheers and thanks so much for watching. Hit the subscribe button , I would really appreciate it!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Wow, I am surprised. We are very close in size. I am about 20 lbs heavier, but this gives me hope...lol! Better cut down a few burgers and start saving. Thanks!
@@chuckhpnwx I have been a few pounds heavier. Gents our size fight a constant battle. Somewhere between XL and XXL 🤣
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Truth!
The Farrah Fawcett of cars.
😍
I agree that Esprit is better with a 4 cylinder engine but Sport 300 is the best Esprit. It is faster than a V8 and has the best handling. I also prefer the Stevens styling than the last facelift.
Sport 300 is peak Esprit, S4S is nearly as sweet and there are 300+ so it’s attainable. That being said, I will have an S300 one day :) cheers and thanks for watching
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Yes S4S is next best Esprit and yours is in beautiful british racing green color. Love it!
I just bought a red Esprit SE myself. :)
@@marcinfedyna8806 congrats !!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage Thank you. :)
Subd in the first 30 seconds.
That means the world to me
❤
I like the car
Thanks for watching !
The best Lotus Esprit is that one, which is parking in your own garage.
Very true!!
What the hell happened to the audio at the 2:26 mark?
Where can I get that exhaust?
Southwest Lotus Centre. Ask for James. Tell him Tim sent you. You will LOVE it
Which Quicksilver exhaust is that?
Just the tips . This is straight pipes, 200 cell cats and QS tips
Sorry , I thought this comment was on my V8 video. This car has a South West Lotus Centre exhaust, cat delete and single muffler. They have them built specifically for S4S and S300. If you watch the video there is more context. It’s very similar to the quicksilver or Larini exhaust. Thanks for watching !
hi Tim would i be able to swap in a lotus v8 engine into my s4??
A Lotus V8 or an LS? Either is possible. The v8 shifts the mass slightly higher which changes the feel a bit. The Lotus V8 is designed to fit nicely in the Lotus X Frame
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage thanks so much for the tip I’m from Brasil and would like to ask a few more detailed questions is there a more easier contact method I could trouble you for
Thanks
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage lótus v8
@@ricos9282 message me on Instagram . Same name !
you need to focus the camera and show the car more.
Thanks for watching and for the feedback
The Esprits have Renault transmissions. These transmissions cannot handle big torque (as Fifth Gear proved). So when Lotus first developed the twin turbo V8 engine, it produced 500hp and big torque. But guess what, the trans couldn't handle it, so they had no choice but to turn the boost down and lower the compression of the flat plane V8 engine, which meant the engine now only made 350hp. Stupid decision imo. If you have a transmission that can't cope with torque, then ditch the turbo's and just have a wonderful naturally aspirated flat plane crank V8 with as high compression as possible and a nice high rev limit. Now THAT would have been an amazing Esprit. Instead, the twin turbo V8 Esprit is an underpowered lazy car just to ensure the trans doesn't poop itself.
So I agree with you on the S4S with the 2.2 turbo being the one to have. Did you guys in the states get the Esprit GT3?
We didn’t get the gt3 2.0l here. I would love to import one in the next few years. I am really enjoying this green car and currently doing a full restoration on a 1994 S4. These are brilliant cars . Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts! I would be honoured if you would hit subscribe ! Cheers 🍻
God help men. Some of are rich. But most of us are very poor.
Just keep saving. My current garage is a blessing but required decades of hard work. Cheers and thanks for watching !!
@@TimsEnthusiastGarage thank you
Need For Speed 2 😁
Thanks for watching !
RT: Hey Louis George I have a good idea. We do a passenger car like this one but no water jackets.. electric heat . Asian cars done ,, vw gone to.. don't take dollar, Eruo, aaiN currency.. see you soon.. there was an imposter
Yesterday 45 year old you, Henry, and William. See you soon buddy.. done with my deployment..
Non è s4s!! Radica 😅😅
I assure you it is an S4S
@@renatorotunno5434 it’s possible you are unfamiliar with the US spec which does NOT have the flairs that Europe got. Same power, same S300 head etc. ciao!