1973 BMW 3 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 3 weights approximately 273 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 3 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1973 BMW 3 (287 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2260 mm |
