1995 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 BMW 325
To start off, 2010 BMW 325 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 325 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1995 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1995 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 325 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1995 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Elan | 2010 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 325 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2730 mm |
