2009 BMW 328 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 BMW 328 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 328 weights approximately 319 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.
Because 2009 BMW 328 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 328 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, 1980 Lotus Esprit (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 328. (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1980 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 328.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 328 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 328 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1525 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 67 L |
