1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1974 BMW 2.8 is newer by 6 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 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 838 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 2.8 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1170 mm |
