1972 BMW 520 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Lotus Elan (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 520 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1993 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 520 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 520 | Elan |
Year Released | 1972 | 1993 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2260 mm |