1985 Beijing BJ 2021 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1985 Beijing BJ 2021 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,464 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Beijing BJ 2021 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1985 Beijing BJ 2021. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1985 Beijing BJ 2021. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Beijing BJ 2021 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1985 Beijing BJ 2021 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Beijing BJ 2021 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1985 Beijing BJ 2021 (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Beijing BJ 2021 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Beijing BJ 2021 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Beijing | Lotus |
| Model | BJ 2021 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1969 |
| Engine Size | 2464 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2440 mm |
