What's wrong with US '97 V8s???
Discussion
Common 97MY issues include:
- Cracking AWI wheels (all replaced under recall)
- Cracking exhausts (replaced under warranty at first, then you're on your own)
- Leaking spark plug wells can cause unexpected engine stalls or rough idle (gaskets need to be replaced and plug wires sealed with silicone)
- Numerous Check Engine Lights and SIR Lights (sometimes caused by corrosion in connectors)
- Coolant loss through leaking cylinder liners (some engines were replaced under warranty)
- Clutch engagement problems (all US cars were updated to dual plate clutch system by LCU)
- Alternators last about 3 years
- premature failure of catalytic converters
Not to offend anyone, but given the choice between the S4s and a 97MY V8 I would take the former. As with any manufacturer, it usually takes a while before the kinks are ironed out of a new design. With the S4s you have essntially 20+ years of development behind you. Once you get into 98MY and beyond things begin to improve.
Also, remember there are (in general) twice as many parts to replace in a V8 engine (valves, pistons, etc.) so repair costs will be higher.
- Cracking AWI wheels (all replaced under recall)
- Cracking exhausts (replaced under warranty at first, then you're on your own)
- Leaking spark plug wells can cause unexpected engine stalls or rough idle (gaskets need to be replaced and plug wires sealed with silicone)
- Numerous Check Engine Lights and SIR Lights (sometimes caused by corrosion in connectors)
- Coolant loss through leaking cylinder liners (some engines were replaced under warranty)
- Clutch engagement problems (all US cars were updated to dual plate clutch system by LCU)
- Alternators last about 3 years
- premature failure of catalytic converters
Not to offend anyone, but given the choice between the S4s and a 97MY V8 I would take the former. As with any manufacturer, it usually takes a while before the kinks are ironed out of a new design. With the S4s you have essntially 20+ years of development behind you. Once you get into 98MY and beyond things begin to improve.
Also, remember there are (in general) twice as many parts to replace in a V8 engine (valves, pistons, etc.) so repair costs will be higher.
In my mind there's no question. Go with the S4s. There's not a huge difference performance wise between the S4s and the V-8's. Low end torque up to about 40mph is better with the V8 of course. After that the S4s holds it's own.
Maintenance and/or repairs are much easier and cheaper on the S4s.
Someone posted recently about one of the Lotus factory engineers claiming that the S4s was the best they ever made, for what that's worth.
If I were going to get a V8 it would be a 99 or later.
Just another opinion....
Jim Knowles
95 S4s
Maintenance and/or repairs are much easier and cheaper on the S4s.
Someone posted recently about one of the Lotus factory engineers claiming that the S4s was the best they ever made, for what that's worth.
If I were going to get a V8 it would be a 99 or later.
Just another opinion....
Jim Knowles
95 S4s
karmavore said:
I'm not so interested in collectability, so all things being equal I'd rather have a V8 than an S4S. Of course, all things aren't equal, so is a '97 going to be a maintenance nightmare?
Luke.
It depends on prior maintenance. If the PO was a good owner, and given the time between 97 and now, has had all of the known issues sorted - you could find a good one...
...as with any V8, have the street/torque upgrade done. It helps with in-city driving and (IMHO/observation) makes the driving experience more pleasant...
ErnestM
karlfranz said:I thought this was exclusive to some '99 models. A batch of engines were run before the sealant used at the base of the liners was completely cured. LCU can (apparently) even provide a range of suspect VINs IIRC.
- Coolant loss through leaking cylinder liners (some engines were replaced under warranty)
Hi,
It's generally accepted by those in the know that the S4s is the pinnacle of the breed, excluding the limited performance variants x-180R, Sport 300, Sport 350.
There are several reasons why many prefer the V8, such as they're the newest itineration, the somewhat convoluted logic that More has to be Better etc. And, S4s models are so rare that many V8 owners have never driven one to actually feel the difference.
But, the performance differences are actually very slight with the V8 having a better bottom end. This is of secondary importance to a road car.
In contrast, the S4s is a slightly better balanced car with a lesser rear weight bias, it has more of a Sports Car nimbleness to it.
If it were my choice, I would hold out to find a nice S4s, even if it took a little longer or I payed a slightly higher price for one over a '97 or '98 V8.
But of course, many different people hold many different opinions. In the end, it's important to remember the words of Stephen Stills - "Love the one you're with"! Happy Motoring! ...Jim'85TE
>> Edited by lotusguy on Wednesday 7th April 16:23
It's generally accepted by those in the know that the S4s is the pinnacle of the breed, excluding the limited performance variants x-180R, Sport 300, Sport 350.
There are several reasons why many prefer the V8, such as they're the newest itineration, the somewhat convoluted logic that More has to be Better etc. And, S4s models are so rare that many V8 owners have never driven one to actually feel the difference.
But, the performance differences are actually very slight with the V8 having a better bottom end. This is of secondary importance to a road car.
In contrast, the S4s is a slightly better balanced car with a lesser rear weight bias, it has more of a Sports Car nimbleness to it.
If it were my choice, I would hold out to find a nice S4s, even if it took a little longer or I payed a slightly higher price for one over a '97 or '98 V8.
But of course, many different people hold many different opinions. In the end, it's important to remember the words of Stephen Stills - "Love the one you're with"! Happy Motoring! ...Jim'85TE
>> Edited by lotusguy on Wednesday 7th April 16:23
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