1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 45 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 865 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 120 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 53 L |
