1992 BMW 540 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1992 BMW 540 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 1061 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 540 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1721 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 29 L |
