2009 BMW 125 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 29 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 206 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, 2009 BMW 125 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (222 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 125 1980 Lotus Esprit
Make BMW Lotus
Model 125 Esprit
Year Released 2009 1980
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 2497 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 215 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 222 Nm
Torque RPM 2750 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1326 kg 1120 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1760 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2450 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 53 L 67 L