1981 BMW 528 vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1990 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 528 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 528 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 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1981 BMW 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 528 | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 528 | Elan |
Year Released | 1981 | 1990 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2788 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 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 |