1992 BMW M3 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW M3 weights approximately 445 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW M3 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 1992 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1992 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1992 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1992 BMW M3 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | M3 | Elan |
Year Released | 1992 | 1993 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |