1985 BMW 324 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1985 BMW 324 is newer by 19 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW 324 weights approximately 600 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:
| 1985 BMW 324 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 324 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 29 L |
