1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 BMW 5 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 5 Series is newer by 22 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 5 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 5 Series (296 HP) has 136 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 5 Series should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 5 Series weights approximately 1108 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 2013 BMW 5 Series 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 2013 BMW 5 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 5 Series (407 Nm) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2013 BMW 5 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2013 BMW 5 Series 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. 2013 BMW 5 Series will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2013 BMW 5 Series | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 5 Series |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 296 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 89 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4999 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2132 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1559 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3070 mm |
