1986 BMW 316 vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 199 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316.
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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 316 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2420 mm |
