2009 BMW X5 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit

To start off, 2009 BMW X5 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (210 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X5 weights approximately 306 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 X5 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 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, 2009 BMW X5 (476 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 2009 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW X5 1980 Lotus Esprit
Make BMW Lotus
Model X5 Esprit
Year Released 2009 1980
Body Type SUV Coupe
Engine Position Front Middle
Engine Size 4799 cc 2174 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 350 HP 210 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 476 Nm 271 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 95.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88.3 mm 76.2 mm
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.5 seconds 6 seconds
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1219 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1940 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1740 mm 1120 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2440 mm