Lotus Esprit S2.2
The S2.2 looked almost like the earlier Esprit S2, but a longer-stroke 2.2-litre engine gave it more mid-range pull and a galvanised backbone helped the chassis resist corrosion.
1980 Lotus Esprit S2.2 · MrWalkr · CC BY-SA 4.0
Research pending
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More than a set of wheels.
Lotus used the Esprit S2.2 as a short bridge between the 1970s S2 and the new Turbo/S3 era. Its wedge body still followed Giorgetto Giugiaro's original Esprit idea, but the engine grew from the 1,973 cc Type 907 to the 2,174 cc Type 912. Peak power stayed at 160 bhp while torque improved. A galvanised steel backbone chassis was another important change. The S2.2 remained naturally aspirated, so this article never borrows the 210 bhp or 240 km/h figures of the separate Turbo Esprit launched in the same period.
Look a little closer.
The S2.2's badge simply read 'Esprit 2.2,' even though enthusiasts use S2.2 to separate it from the earlier S2.
Photos show an example of the model or generation. The pictured vehicle’s year, equipment, or modifications can differ from the specification described here.
A quiet but important engine change
The Type 912 kept the earlier engine's 160 bhp peak but raised capacity to 2,174 cc and delivered 160 lb-ft at 5,000 rpm. The point was stronger torque through more of the rev range, not a bigger headline horsepower number.
Source: Lotus service bulletin 1980/10 and S1/S2/S2.2 parts list ↗Do not confuse it with the Turbo Esprit
Lotus introduced a 2.2-litre Turbo Esprit in 1980 too, but that was a 210 bhp Type 82 with different performance and chassis development. The S2.2 here is the naturally aspirated interim car: S2 clothing, Type 912 engine, five-speed manual and rear-wheel drive.
Source: Lotus Cars · Esprit history ↗Where these facts come from
- Lotus Cars · Esprit history
- Lotus factory service bulletin/parts list · S1, S2 and S2.2
- Lotus Esprit World · Esprit S2.2 register/specification
Selected facts checked for this edition. Some source pages link to broader model families. Last reviewed 2026-10-02.