1996 BMW 332 vs. 2005 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2005 Lotus Elise. (190 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2005 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 664 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (187 Nm). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2005 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 332 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 896 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
