1988 BMW Z1 vs. 2004 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2004 Lotus Esprit is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 3,507 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1988 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 130 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1. 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, 2004 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW Z1. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW Z1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW Z1 | 2004 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | Z1 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 350 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
