1995 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 is newer by 16 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1995 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1995 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 570 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 2011 BMW Z4 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 2011 BMW Z4. 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, 2011 BMW Z4 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Lotus Elan | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
Make | Lotus | BMW |
Model | Elan | Z4 |
Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 406 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1590 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4239 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1791 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2497 mm |