1986 BMW 316 vs. 1962 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1986 BMW 316 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,573 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elan (100 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 316 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1962 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. Let's talk about torque, 1962 Lotus Elan (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1986 BMW 316 | 1962 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 316 | Elan |
Year Released | 1986 | 1962 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 100 HP |
Torque | 123 Nm | 138 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 72.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2140 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |