1984 BMW 323 vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 202 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 288 kg more than 1984 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 323 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 286 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
