S1 to S2 change over

[fxTrader]

Is there a 100% certain way to determine if a vehicle is a true S2 factory build?

Your help is greatly appreciated.

Bob

[iainskea]

I would say a combination of the engine stamp and chassis compliance plate (match). In the manual it gives a breakdown of the code so that would be a way.

I don't think the 'bunny ears' can be added to an S1 - could be wrong.

Otherwise - a trace back on registration to establish the year of maunufacture.

Iain

[fxTrader]

I would say a combination of the engine stamp and chassis compliance plate (match). In the manual it gives a breakdown of the code so that would be a way.

I don't think the 'bunny ears' can be added to an S1 - could be wrong.

Otherwise - a trace back on registration to establish the year of maunufacture.

Iain

Iain,

The date of manufacture of this vehicle says May 78, however, I was reading something on the net where it states that the S2s started production in August of 78. This car definately has all of the S2 features, so I am confused as to whether it is an S1 or S2?

Bob,

[iainskea]

Iain,

The date of manufacture of this vehicle says May 78, however, I was reading something on the net where it states that the S2s started production in August of 78. This car definately has all of the S2 features, so I am confused as to whether it is an S1 or S2?

Bob,

I'll check the code tonight, and anything else I think off.

Iain

[matk]

One of the last changes to occur was Smiths instruments in the binnacle. If it has these good chance it's an S2, however if the instruments have a green background (I think Veglia?) then may be an S1. Marc Bradley had one of the last ever S1's and it had an S2 front spoiler but no "ears". He contacted Lotus who told him that as stock of specific S1 parts ran out, incoming S2 parts were used on the last S1s so there may be a few hybrid versions around.

As posted above only sure fire way is chassis no. I wouldn't trust the engine no as it may have been replaced at some time.

[Advantage]

Don't worry too much, it's not too difficult to revert the car back to the pure and pretty lines of the S1

[iainskea]

Ok - now I remember how simple this is....not

The VIN for domestic cars first 6 digiits are (first three numbers): Manufacturer Id code, (next three) are the Vehicle Type: 079 is Esprit S2.

My manual was produced in Apr 1978, and I belive only for S2.

This from a guy who had to sort out an S2 dressed up as an S3 from the prev owner.

Iain

[fxTrader]

Okay, thanks to all for the input. I am going to assume that it is an S2 since the VIN does have the vehicle type as 079 in it. And since it has the ears, front wrap around spoiler and the smith guages, it must be. Thanks again for the help.

Bob