1997 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 8 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), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 29 kg more than 1997 BMW M3. 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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (353 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1989 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | M3 | Esprit |
Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 264 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 353 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 256 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1160 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |