1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 BMW 116
To start off, 2012 BMW 116 is newer by 46 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), 2012 BMW 116 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 116 (116 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 116 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 116 weights approximately 689 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 | 2012 BMW 116 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 116 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 51 L |
