Widely regarded as the best of the normally-aspirated, Giorgetto Giugiaro-styled Lotus Esprits, the S3 was introduced on April the 22 nd 1981.

Visually updated via a plethora of colour-coded aerodynamic aids (front spoiler, side skirts, air scoops, etc), the model also boasted a new steering wheel, seats, and instruments.

Derived from the Essex Turbo Esprit, its galvanised backbone chassis featured all-round independent suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and four-wheel disc brakes.

Light and supremely agile in the best Lotus tradition, the S3 was powered by a mid-mounted 2174cc DOHC four-cylinder engine allied to a five-speed manual transmission.

With a quoted 160bhp and 160lbft of torque on tap, it was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 6.7 seconds and 135mph.

Notably more refined thanks to increased sound deadening, the junior supercar remained in production until 1987 by which time just 767 are thought to have been made.

The S3 offered is a home market example having been supp...