1965 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 BMW 318
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 920 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan. 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. 2008 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1965 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1965 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 2008 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 318 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
