1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 934 kg more than 1966 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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 BMW Z3 (180 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 186 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 | 696 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
