1981 BMW 518 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1981 BMW 518 is newer by 13 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 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
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:
| 1981 BMW 518 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 518 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2240 mm |
