1977 Lotus Esprit

S1 Coupe

4 - Cyl.

Manual

77060321H

Clear

Gasoline

1977 Lotus Esprit S1. Car has been in storage for the better part of the past 4 years. Structurally sound. Body has some cosmetic issues (bubbles, scratches), but no major issues. Tires have less than 100 miles on them. Interior in good condition. Now for the story: I bought the Lotus about 5 years ago on eBay. When it arrived, ran well but had some electrical issues (horn, turn signals, brake lights). Also discovered no motor for headlights. I live in a VERY rural part of Southeastern NC and knew little to nothing about how to work on Lotuses (1st mistake). Took the Lotus to a local automotive electric shop (2nd mistake) where they said they could repair it. Stayed there for almost 1 year with numerous attempts (or so they claimed) to repair electrical system, but car was no better than when I first took it there. They also could not repair the headlights. (Guess I should have known to bring the car home when THEY asked me to find parts for it). At that time the car ran and handled fine. No problems with starting, shifting, overheating, steering, etc. Because of no brake lights and no inspection, I only drove it once in a great while on the roads near my home. Otherwise, I kept it stored. I already spent $14,000 for the car and did not have more money to put in it at that time. The closest mechanics I found who work on Lotus Esprits were over 100 miles away. Last year, my teenage son decided to take the Lotus out for a spin (without my knowledge, of course). While he was driving, the car ran out of gas (I drained the fuel system) about a mile from our home. His friend "helped" him get back home by pushing the car with his truck while my son steered (I guess putting gas in it cost too much). This left a superficial mark across the back bumper. I put gas in it later that month. The car would start if I sprayed starter in the carbs but would not keep running. I guess a problem with the fuel delivery (fuel pump, filter, line, etc). I have vacillated between spending the money to transport the Lotus and have any and all repairs done or selling it. My daughter needs a car, so I decided to sell the Lotus. Here are the issues as I know: -Starts but does not run. -Electrical system needs repair. -Headlight motor system needs repair. -Cosmetic issues. There ARE some positive issues: -Car has no structural issues that I am aware. -Interior and Exterior in very good condition overall. -Tires with 98-99% tread left. -New steering wheel and shifter. -Custom floor mats. -No fluid leaks. -Shop manuals included. -Last but not least, this car is definitely a head turner and was a blast to drive! If you have wanted an exotic sports car, but did not want to spend a ton of money or invest a lot of time and energy restoring one from the ground up, this may be the car for you. I have noted all of the issues that I am aware of and offer no guarantees. I am selling the car as is with no refunds or returns. I am listing the Lotus at a price that takes into consideration the new owner will need to spend money to make repairs. The buyer will need to make arrangements for the Lotus to be picked up and shipped. Please note the Lotus has a VERY low ground clearance, so the buyer will need transport with a rollback. Thanks for looking and e-mail me with any questions or if you would like more photos. On Jul-30-11 at 12:22:01 PDT, seller added the following information: Addendum: It has been pointed out that the Lotus does not resemble the 1977 S1, but rather a 1985-1987 S3. The person who sold it to me stated there had been modifications to the body. Looking at other 1977 Lotus S1s, I agree the car does not resemble them. I am not an expert on Lotuses, but the title and label on the inside of the driver's side door list the date as "1977", and the VIN numbers on the title and under the windshield match so I listed it as such. As I have shown the maximum of 24 photos and have received bids on the car, eBay states I cannot list anymore photos. I shall be glad to send photos of the title, VIN plate on the front windshield, the plate on the driver's side door, and the plate under the hood if you send me your email. I have disclosed every issue that I am aware and welcome any and all questions. On Jul-30-11 at 15:33:41 PDT, seller added the following information: On Aug-02-11 at 10:53:58 PDT, seller added the following information: