1978 BMW M1 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW M1 weights approximately 303 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 1978 BMW M1 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 1978 BMW M1. 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M1 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2260 mm |
