1996 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,504 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (350 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 248 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 Lotus Esprit (400 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW M3 | 2002 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | M3 | Esprit |
Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3001 cc | 3504 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 326 HP | 350 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 400 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 81 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1160 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |