1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 BMW 528
To start off, 2012 BMW 528 is newer by 33 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, 2012 BMW 528 (240 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2012 BMW 528 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 528 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 BMW 528 (352 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit. 2012 BMW 528 has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 528 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 2012 BMW 528 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Esprit | 528 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 240 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2968 mm |
