Lotus Esprit S1–S3 (1976-1986) reliability
Lotus Esprit S1–S3 built before 2000: not enough MOT data yet
We've only seen a handful of Lotus Esprit S1–S3 models built before 2000 so far. Too few to spot a pattern yet.
Looking at a Lotus Esprit S1–S3?
Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.
Key figure
Check a car’s number plate to see its own MOT record, or come back when there’s more MOT history.
Based on 183 tests of Esprit models registered 1976-1986.
S1–S3 fail rate by age
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs. Highest fail rate at 25+ years old.
How the Esprit S1–S3 compares
At each age below, see how the Esprit S1–S3 holds up against other cars the same age. The averages combine all fuel types.
Based on 4,335 tests across 3 Lotus models, built before 2000 (over 25 years old).
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs.
What to check before viewing
The model's most common MOT issues, turned into things you can ask about or look for.
Brake pipes and hoses
High priorityLook under the car for corrosion or chafing on the rigid brake pipes near the rear axle.
Tyres
Worth checkingCheck tread depth across the full width on all four; uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension issues.
Leaks
Worth checkingInspect the leaks carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Suspension springs
Worth checkingCheck ride height is even side-to-side and look for cracked or rusted coils.
Suspension bushes and joints
Worth checkingListen for knocks over speed bumps and ask about recent control-arm or anti-roll-bar work.
Vehicle-specific check
Worth checkingCheck the car’s number plate on MOT Wise to see its own MOT history and any recalls for its build years.
Other coupes to compare
Other coupes, with each one's figures taken at the same age as the Esprit S1–S3.
- 1
Jaguar XK
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 23.1%
No clear edge over the Lotus Esprit S1–S3 on these figures.
Some figures could not be compared for these two cars. So this comparison uses the fail rate and recalls only.
3,434 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 2
Porsche 911
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 13.1%
- Still registered at 10 years
- 94%
No clear edge over the Lotus Esprit S1–S3 on these figures.
2 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.
10,428 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 3
Mercedes-Benz CLK
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 24.8%
No clear edge over the Lotus Esprit S1–S3 on these figures.
Some figures could not be compared for these two cars. So this comparison uses the fail rate and recalls only.
1,725 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 4
MG B GT
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 15.4%
No clear edge over the Lotus Esprit S1–S3 on these figures.
Some figures could not be compared for these two cars. So this comparison uses the fail rate and recalls only.
1,331 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- Fail rate
- = the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests.
- Still registered at 10 years
- = the share of cars still registered (taxed or declared off the road) 10 years after they were first registered.
Recall context
DVSA's recall list has no recalls filed under the Lotus Esprit name. For the exact car, check with the maker or GOV.UK's recall checker.
What has gone wrong on Esprit S1–S3 cars built before 2000
The share of petrol cars that have ever failed an MOT on each part of the car. Based on 176 cars.
Most common issues on Lotus Esprits of this age
This list covers every Lotus Esprit built before 2000, whichever generation it is. We don't have a defect list for the S1–S3 on its own.
Most common advisories and fails
In order of the share of MOT tests that recorded each one
- 18.8%Advisory
Oil leak, but not excessive
- 25.3%Advisory
Tyre slightly damaged, cracking or perishing
- 33.7%Advisory
Coil spring corroded
- 43.7%Advisory
Brake pipe corroded or covered in grease
- 53.5%Advisory
Suspension arm pin or bush worn, but not moving too much
Based on 762 tests
Looking at a Lotus Esprit S1–S3?
Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.
Frequently asked questions
Built before 2000 (over 25 years old), the Lotus Esprit S1–S3 (1976-1986) fails MOTs noticeably less often than typical for this age. This is based on 183 25+ year old MOT tests from DVSA data. Each retest counts as a test.