1990 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Lotus 340 R
To start off, 1998 Lotus 340 R is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (190 HP @ 7800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus 340 R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW M3 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R. 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, 1990 BMW M3 (240 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (198 Nm). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 1998 Lotus 340 R | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M3 | 340 R |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 72 L |
