1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 520 weights approximately 1088 kg more than 1968 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. 2012 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 2012 BMW 520 | |
Make | Lotus | BMW |
Model | Elan | 520 |
Year Released | 1968 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 84 mm |
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 Weight | 702 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4907 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1462 mm |