1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,489 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (190 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 655 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2001 BMW Z3 (237 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elite | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 51 L |
