Reliability GuideCommon Problems with the
Common Problems with the
1978 Lotus Esprit (S4 & V8)
The 1978 Lotus Esprit (S4 & V8) has an excellent reliability record with no widely reported common faults for this model year period.
Buying Tips for 1978 Lotus Esprit (S4 & V8)
- Listen carefully on cold engine startup for ticking or blowing sounds from the exhaust manifolds, indicating hairline cracks or fatigued exhaust-side engine mounts.
- Test the clutch action thoroughly; any slippage in 3rd or 4th gear under boost requires an urgent replacement that involves 11+ hours of transaxle labour.
- Verify cambelt service history; 4-cylinder engines require cambelt replacement every 24,000 miles or 2 years, while the V8 requires belt service every 24,000 miles or 3 years.
- Operate the pop-up headlamps repeatedly; ensure both pods rise and lower simultaneously without motor hesitation, shuddering, or stripped nylon drive gears.
- Inspect the steel backbone chassis and rear suspension subframe closely for rust, particularly around radius arm mounts and fuel tank bays.