1969 BMW 1600 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 BMW 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1969 BMW 1600. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 24 kg more than 1969 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 BMW 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1969 BMW 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 BMW 1600. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
1969 BMW 1600 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 1600 | Elan |
Year Released | 1969 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 98 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 65 L |