1976 Lotus Esprit S1 - One of the Finest Early UK Cars Available Colorado Orange, Matching Numbers, Comprehensive 40k+ Restoration. An exceptionally rare opportunity to acquire an early Lotus Esprit S1. It is with mixed emotions that I am offering my cherished 1976 Lotus Esprit S1 for sale as I turn my attention to other projects. This remarkable example is chassis number 175G and the 73rd of just 268 Esprit S1s built for the UK market. Produced at the Hethel factory in September 1976, it is one of only 16 finished in striking Colorado Orange, complete with its correct red tartan, green cloth and orange carpet interior. Comprehensive Nut & Bolt Restoration Purchased in February 2024 in need of complete restoration, this Esprit has since undergone an uncompromising 15-month, no-expense-spared rebuild. Highlights include: -Complete chassis and mechanical restoration -Spyder Sportscars GRP body correction and professional respray (15k) -All components Powder-coated or vapour-blasted -New wiring loom -Stainless steel exhaust system -Period correct Motorola stereo - bluetooth upgrade -Interior retrim using materials sourced from the same mill as the original -Over 15k in SJ Sportscars parts invoices -Matching numbers engine fully rebuilt with: -New pistons and liners -Reground crankshaft -Skimmed and reconditioned cylinder head The result is an Award-Worthy Provenance Esprit restored to an exceptionally high standard while retaining its originality. This is not just another restored Esprit. The car was one of only 50 Esprits selected to represent the marque at the 2025 Classic Team Lotus 50th Anniversary Garden Party held at Colin Chapman's ancestral home, East Carleton Manor. Included with the car is the exclusive commemorative T-shirt, available only to participating owners and personally signed by legendary Esprit designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. The car is also featured in the March edition of Absolute Lotus magazine, further cementing its significance. Since completion, the car has covered approximately 2,000 faultless miles, attending numerous classic car shows and proms, where it consistently attracts admiration and attention. It will be supplied with: -12 months MOT -Lotus Certificate of Provenance -Signed 50th AnniversaSigned 50th Anniversary commemorative T-shirt -Absolute Lotus magazine featuring the car A Rare Investment-Grade Esprit