LOTUS S4S

The new Lotus Esprit S4S made its European debut at the 1995 Geneva Salon. The Esprit range thus grows to three with the new model positioned between the successful Lotus Esprit S4 and the competition-oriented Lotus Esprit Sport 300.

The new Lotus Esprit S4S provides a peak of 224 kW from its turbocharged and intercooled 2.2 litre engine, thanks to a new turbocharger and engine management programme. The torque peak and spread is also increased considerably, improving the flexibility and driveability of this already renowned powertrain. 80% of the 394 Nm maximum torque is available between 2500-6500 rpm.

Externally, the bodyshell is distinguished from the Lotus Esprit S4 with wheel-arch extensions to cover the new tire and wheel package. This comprises 23 5/40x 17" (front) and 285/3 5x 18" (rear) Michelin Pilot SX MXX3 tires on OZ alloy rims. (Note - this is the first application for Michelin tires on the Lotus Esprit). The graceful yet dramatic rear wing from the Esprit Sport 300 is employed to complement the increased performance and to match the aggressiveness ofthe wheel/tyre package. New S4S badging completes the package.

Internally, the S4S benefits from the improvements to the interior package and braking system introduced on the 1995 Lotus Esprit S4. New larger instruments from Caerbont are surrounded by a wood-veneered binnacle with matching trim panels on the doors. The upholstery design to the seats, centre console, tunnel top and door trims is also new for 1995.

Under the skin, suspension settings have been developed to suit the new wheel/tyre package, giving high levels of grip with well-mannered ride. In addition, a new brake package comprising four-wheel ventilated discs and calipers from Brembo is now standard fitment.

Colin Gething, Head of Sales for Lotus Cars: "We've introduced this third variant to our Esprit range because many customers wanted the performance ofthe Sport 300 with the sophistication ofthe S4. The S4S delivers this package with style and value."

Note: Due to Swiss homologation laws, the S4S will be sold in Switzerland without the rear wing. An unobtrusive extended rear lip spoiler will be fitted instead, which will deliver similar aerodynamic performance. The Sport 300 is not available in Switzerland.

Brief Specification:

Body:

* Mid-engined high-performance two-seat sports car.
* Galvanised steel backbone chassis with composite bodyshell including "Sport 300" rear wing (where homologated) and unique wheelarch extensions.

Powertrain:

* Lotus 2.2litre charge-cooled aluminium alloy 16-valve engine with enlarged inlet valves and specially modified cylinder head for improved gas flow.
* Hybrid Garrett AiResearch T3/60turbocharger.
* High-torque 5-speed transaxle from Renault, with short-shift gearchange and hydraulic clutch.

Suspension Systems:

* Independent front suspension by upper and lower wishbones with specially-developed coil springs and dampers.
* Independent rear suspension by upper and lower transverse links and radius arms,with specially-developed coil springs and dampers.
* Dual circuit ABS brakes by Delco with ventilated discs,(296mm front,300mm rear) and Brembo calipers.
* 5-spoke OZ alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot SX MXX3 tires, ZR-rated (235/40x17" front, 285/35x18" rear).
* Lotus/Saginaw power steering (standard)

Interior:

* Burr walnut veneer to instrument surround and door trims
* New instrument pack by Caerbont with large-diameter speedometer and tachometer
* New design for leather upholstery on seats, centre console, tunnel top and door inner panels

Performance:

* 213kW continuous @ 6400 rpm (ISO) - peak transient of 224kW available under acceleration
* 394 Nm @ 4100 rpm
* Maximum speed 260 km/h
* 0-100 km/h in 5. 0 seconds, 0-160 km/h in 11. 4 seconds