1962 BMW 1500 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 BMW 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 BMW 1500 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1962 BMW 1500. (80 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1962 BMW 1500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 BMW 1500 weights approximately 23 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1962 BMW 1500 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1962 BMW 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 BMW 1500. (118 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 BMW 1500.
Compare all specifications:
1962 BMW 1500 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 1500 | Elan |
Year Released | 1962 | 1991 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1499 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 80 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 118 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1043 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2260 mm |