1985 BMW 324 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 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 240 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1985 BMW 324 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 1985 BMW 324. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 324.
Compare all specifications:
1985 BMW 324 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 324 | Elan |
Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 85 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 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 | 1260 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |