1989 BMW Z1 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW Z1 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 BMW Z1 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 1989 BMW Z1. 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, 1989 BMW Z1 (231 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW Z1 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | Z1 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | 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 | 175 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2260 mm |
