Highlights

Well presented factory standard S3 in red with gold alloys
Low documented mileage of under 48,000 miles
Desirable final Giugiaro-designed version with 2.2L Type 912 engine
£9,000 of maintenance since 2023 including servicing and timing belt
Recent work to brakes, suspension, cooling and heating systems
MOT valid to May 2026 with no advisories

The Appeal

The S3 was the final iteration of Giugiaro’s astonishing Esprit design. The later models would take the idea in new and appealing directions, but there is something otherworldly and utterly compelling about the original.

Introduced in 1981, the S3 is notable not for the light tweaks to its bodywork, but its improved chassis and sharper handling. Quality improved too, which explains why later models like this 1985 example are so appealing to collectors.

Finished in classic red with gold BBS alloys and beige leather and suede cabin, it is a highly original and very well maintained example that has covered less than 48,000 miles from new. The condition is impressive, the usually fragile cabin showing just a slight edge of wear that could be easily remedied. Elsewhere the decals, body colour bumpers and side skirts all wear their age very lightly.

The history file is impressive, particularly in recent times. In 2019 the car went to Lotus specialist Bell & Colvill for a new flywheel. More recently in 2023 and 2024 £9,000 was invested by the previous keeper in extensive work. This included a new timing belt plus work to the brakes, suspension, heating and cooling systems. There was also a service, since when the car has covered few miles.

This is a really tidy, low mileage example of one of British motoring’s most interesting and rewarding sports cars. There is the added appeal of a lengthy, advisory-free MOT valid to May 2026. That could be the car’s last because from 1st April 2026 it is eligible for Historic Vehicle status.

The vendor says:

“Bought it in May this year and I knew the car from the previous owner. It has the most history I’ve ever seen on a car and both him and I spent a lot of money keeping it perfect.”

History and Paperwork

First registered 10th October 1985
VIN number SCC085912FHD12243
Six registered keepers
Current keeper since May 2025
Purchased by the current keeper from a friend
Vendor advises that car has extensive history documentation
Factory handbooks
1 set of keys
Various tax discs as shown
Invoice from 2019 for flywheel and other work by Bell & Colvill
05/10/23: service, timing belt, suspension, hoses etc at 46,562 miles
22/06/24: headlining trim and heater system repairs
Total of these invoices is around £9,000 as shown
Current MOT valid to 1st May 2026 with no advisories
46,894 miles on MOT and 47,584 miles showing in photos
Car is eligible for Historic Vehicle status from 1st April 2026 based on registration date

The Condition

Very smart car in red with well kept paintwork, decals and bodywork
Exterior shows few indications of age including to body colour bumpers and skirts
Fitted with gold BBS 15in alloy wheels shod with quality Pirelli tyres
We are told that one of the alloy wheels may have a mark
No structural advisories on MOT
The vendor informs us the car is in excellent condition
Beige suede and leather interior in original and well kept condition
Interior shows some light age typical of originality
This includes carpet fade and driver’s seat
Carpets fitted with ‘Esprit’ branded black carpet mats
Headlining recently retrimmed as shown in photos for invoices
Fitted with glass ‘pop up ‘ sunroof
Retains its period Blaupunkt stereo and speakers

The Mechanics

2,174cc Type 912 4cyl Lotus engine
4spd manual gearbox with final ‘overdrive’ ratio delivering 5 gears
£9,000 of recent work detailed above and in photos
No advisories on MOT

BEFORE YOU BUY

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