top of page

1979 Lotus Esprit S2

Iconic Auctioneers Ltd

1979 Lotus Esprit S2
Iconic Auctioneers Ltd
info_icon.png

If you are interested in the content of this listing, please contact the Dealer. Contact details are indicated below in the section "Contact the Dealer." Should you require confidential support from SpeedHolics for your inquiry, kindly complete the section "I am Interested." This listing is provided by SpeedHolics solely for the purpose of offering information and resources to our readers. The information contained within this listing is the property of the entity indicated as the "Dealer." SpeedHolics has no involvement in the commercial transactions arising from this listing, and we will not derive any financial gain from any sales made through it. Furthermore, SpeedHolics is entirely independent from the "Dealer" mentioned in this listing and maintains no affiliation, association, or connection with them in any capacity. Any transactions, engagements, or communications undertaken as a result of this listing are the sole responsibility of the parties involved, and SpeedHolics shall bear no liability or responsibility in connection therewith. For more information, please refer to the "Legal & Copyright" section below.

info_icon.png

SH ID

22-1102001

info_icon.png

FEATURED BY SPEEDHOLICS

info_icon.png

In Stock

info_icon.png

United Kingdom

info_icon.png

Auction

An impressively presented Series 2 in a very rare colour combination from long-term enthusiast ownership.

 

Registration Number HLD 900T

 

Chassis Number 79010635G

 

Engine Number CC907790115870

 

Transmission Manual

 

Body Colour Championship Gold"

Description

"In the early-1970s, the recently appointed Tony Rudd came up with two major ideas, codenamed Project M50 and Project M70, the former became the 1974 Lotus Elite, the latter became the Esprit. The S1 Esprit was released in 1976 following halts in production and design with Colin Chapman being underwhelmed by the model version’s wind tunnel performance, with the S2 launching in 1978. As part of the advertising and marketing program, the S2 was launched featuring an infamous shot of its creator Colin Chapman perched on a Championship Gold S2 Esprit in front of his JPS logo'd Cessna Chancellor executive twin. It's the kind of image that only the 70s could pull off with any degree of normality. External differences from the S1 included new intake and cooling ducts behind the rear quarter windows, 14in Speedline alloy wheels, taillights from the Rover SD1 and an integrated front spoiler. Not known for their practicality, more helpful changes were made including relocating the battery to the rear of the car, adding an access door to the engine cover, installing wider seats and replacing the Veglia instrument cluster with individual Smiths. Following long-term (c.20 year) storage, this S2 presents in remarkably original condition in its launch colour of Championship Gold. The Marcasite faux-Suede interior presents exceptionally well, which is no easy feat as it is notoriously hard to maintain or replace. The carbs have been subject to a full rebuild and set-up by Lotus Specialists with photographic evidence, with any old/worn parts being replaced when warranted. This lovely and well cared for example is reportedly number 10 of just 27 cars built in ‘launch specification’ and has covered a warranted 62,216 (atoc) miles from new, backed up by a host of old MOTs. This S2 runs and drives very well with very minor (yet essential) modern day upgrades such as electronic ignition, improved earthing cables and a battery isolator. Esprit's are striking looking cars anyway and the rare colour of Championship Gold lifts it even further, reflected in success at a recent Shelsley Walsh Concours and numerous magazine articles featuring HLD. It's supplied with a bespoke indoor car cover, lots of invoices and related history, an owners manual and a Lotus Certificate of Provenance."