1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 BMW 530
To start off, 2011 BMW 530 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 530 (271 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan.
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. 2011 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2011 BMW 530 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 530 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
