1978 Lotus Esprit vs. 2011 BMW X5
To start off, 2011 BMW X5 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW X5 weights approximately 1395 kg more than 1978 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2011 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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. 2011 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1978 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1978 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Lotus Esprit | 2011 BMW X5 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Esprit | X5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1972 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 265 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 2355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4857 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1933 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1776 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2934 mm |
