1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 46 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (148 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 845 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, 2008 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2008 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elite | 320 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 63 L |
