1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 20 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (169 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 388 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 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2011 BMW 120 (210 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 2011 BMW 120 | |
Make | Lotus | BMW |
Model | Elan | 120 |
Year Released | 1991 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 169 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 210 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |