1971 BMW 3 vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 3 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2420 mm |
