1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1999 BMW Z3. (240 HP @ 7400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 66 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (353 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW Z3. (320 Nm). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Esprit | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
