1988 BMW 520 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Lotus Elan (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 550 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1993 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1993 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 520 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 520 | Elan |
Year Released | 1988 | 1993 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2260 mm |