1996 BMW 523 vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (350 HP) has 180 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 167 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 523 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
