1990 BMW 316 vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1970 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 316 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1170 mm |
