1951 BMW 340 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 BMW 340 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1951 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1951 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 BMW 340 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 BMW 340 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 340 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2450 mm |
