1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 2010 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2010 Lotus Elise is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lotus Elise (405 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1974 BMW 2.8. (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 2.8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lotus Elise weights approximately 341 kg more than 1974 BMW 2.8. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2010 Lotus Elise (459 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 2.8. (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2010 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 2.8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 2010 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 2.8 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 405 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4882 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1915 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1354 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2941 mm |
