1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 BMW 325
To start off, 2005 BMW 325 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 325 (184 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 325 weights approximately 573 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 BMW 325 (245 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2005 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2005 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 325 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 184 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2730 mm |
