2006 BMW X5 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X5 (228 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | X5 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 71 L |
