1954 BMW 340 vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1988 Lotus Esprit is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 340 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lotus Esprit (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1954 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1954 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 BMW 340 weights approximately 62 kg more than 1988 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:
| 1954 BMW 340 | 1988 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 340 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1188 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2440 mm |
