1984 BMW 318 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1984 BMW 318 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 BMW 318 weights approximately 304 kg more than 1966 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:
| 1984 BMW 318 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 318 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1966 |
| 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 | 103 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 178 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
