1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 BMW 128
To start off, 2012 BMW 128 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 128 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 128 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 128. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 128 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Lotus Elan | 2012 BMW 128 | |
Make | Lotus | BMW |
Model | Elan | 128 |
Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
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 | 163 HP | 230 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4374 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1412 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2659 mm |