1954 BMW 502 vs. 1965 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1965 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,578 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1954 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1954 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 BMW 502 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan.
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:
| 1954 BMW 502 | 1965 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 502 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2578 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
