This Lotus Esprit got away, but there are more like it here.

This 1978 Lotus Esprit S1 is a non-running project that was purchased new by the current owner in Des Moines, Iowa. The factory 2.0L Type 907 twin-cam four is paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox and is said to remain unmodified. Showing just under 15k from new, the car was last driven by the owner 10 years ago and the crank is said to move freely when turned manually. Records included the original bill of sale, and the car is offered on consignment by the selling dealer with a clean Indiana title in the current owner’s name.

One-Owner 1978 Lotus Esprit S1 Project

The car is reported to have been garage-kept under a cover, and the blue paintwork is said to be original. The finish presents well in the provided photographs following a professional detailing by the seller. Imperfections are highlighted in the gallery and include some blemishes in the finish, a missing cover on the passenger-side mirror, a broken antenna mast, and some warping to the front rubber bumper.

One-Owner 1978 Lotus Esprit S1 Project

Factory 14″ Wolfrace alloys show pitting and are fitted with what are believed to be the original Dunlop tires.

One-Owner 1978 Lotus Esprit S1 Project

The two-tone brown and tan cabin appears well-preserved for its age, with detailed photographs showing minimal wear to the seat upholstery, interior plastics, and carpets.

One-Owner 1978 Lotus Esprit S1 Project

The interior remains free of modifications, retaining its factory radio and two-spoke steering wheel. All electrics and power accessories remain in working order when connected to a 12v power source, including bulbs and HVAC. Though the gauges could not be tested, the battery gauge did register movement. Mileage on the odometer currently shows 14,807 miles.

One-Owner 1978 Lotus Esprit S1 Project

The 2.0L Type 907 twin cam inline-four is paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox and is said by the seller to be the original powertrain. Last run by the original owner approximately 10 years ago, the crank moves freely by hand, though a thorough change of all fluids is advised by the seller prior to restarting.

One-Owner 1978 Lotus Esprit S1 Project

Several photos of the undercarriage are included in the gallery below. The original bill of sale, owner’s manual, tool kit, spare, and jack stand all come with the car.

Auction Result

Winning Bid USD $26,250 by CNP
Auction Ended September 11, 2017 at 1:31PM PT
Bids 51
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BaT Essentials

Listing Details
  • Chassis: 403H
  • 14,807 Miles Shown
  • Type 907 2.0L Twin-Cam Four
  • 5-Speed Manual Gearbox
  • One Owner Example
  • No Modifications
  • Non-Running Condition
  • Original Paperwork
  • USD $195 Document Fee
Private Party or Dealer: Dealer
Additional Charges From This Dealer:
Lot #5822