1987 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1987 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1987 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 54 kg more than 1987 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 BMW 318 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 1987 BMW 318. 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 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 318. (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1987 BMW 318 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 318 | Elan |
Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 966 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 |