2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 27 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), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1981 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | Z4 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 0 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 71 L |
