1995 BMW 317 vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1995 BMW 317 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (215 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (90 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317.
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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (405 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW 317. (190 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 317 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
