1985 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Lotus M250
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP) has 161 more horse power than 1985 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW 316 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Lotus M250 (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 316 | 1999 Lotus M250 | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 316 | M250 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 247 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1180 mm |
