2006 BMW Z4 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 146 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW Z4 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | Z4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1219 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2440 mm |
