1979 BMW 320 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1981 Lotus Esprit is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 483 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 280 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
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:
1979 BMW 320 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 320 | Esprit |
Year Released | 1979 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 641 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |