1979 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 424 more horse power than 2012 Lotus Elise. (217 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lotus Elise weights approximately 86 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
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:
| 1979 BMW 320 | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 320 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1118 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2299 mm |
