1949 BMW 340 vs. 2008 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 59 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1949 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1949 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 BMW 340 weights approximately 369 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 BMW 340 | 2008 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 340 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2310 mm |
