1993 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 BMW 550
To start off, 2010 BMW 550 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 550 weights approximately 770 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 2010 BMW 550 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 2010 BMW 550. 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, 2010 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1993 Lotus Elan | 2010 BMW 550 | |
Make | Lotus | BMW |
Model | Elan | 550 |
Year Released | 1993 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 164 HP | 360 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 488 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4854 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1847 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1468 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2888 mm |