1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 BMW 330
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 18 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (254 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 718 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 2009 BMW 330 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, 2009 BMW 330 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, 2009 BMW 330 (300 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2009 BMW 330 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. 2009 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2009 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 330 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 254 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2770 mm |
