1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 BMW 318 is newer by 21 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), 2012 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 17 more horse power than 2012 BMW 318. (143 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 318 weights approximately 498 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2012 BMW 318 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 2012 BMW 318. 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, 2012 BMW 318 (320 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 BMW 318 | |
Make | Lotus | BMW |
Model | Elan | 318 |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
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 | 143 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 320 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1495 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1429 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2810 mm |