1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z3. (141 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z3.
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, 1979 Lotus Esprit (217 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1979 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Esprit | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 186 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2450 mm |
