1981 BMW 518 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 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 120 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1981 BMW 518 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 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 518. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 518 | Elan |
Year Released | 1981 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |