Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1978 Lotus Esprit — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
THE INVOLVED VEHICLES ARE EQUIPPED WITH A TUBE WHICH IS USED TO CONNECT A FILTER COMPONENT IN THE FUEL SYSTEM. THIS TUBE COULD BECOME DAMAGED AS A RESULT OF EXPOSURE TO ABNORMALLY HIGH AMBIENT TEMPERATURES AND THE ACTION OF CERTAIN FUELS. THE DAMAGED TUBE COULD ALLOW FUEL LEAKAGE TO OCCUR.
Remedy
DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE FUEL SYSTEM TUBING WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1978 Lotus Esprit. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.