1997 BMW M3 vs. 1994 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 3 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 280 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 1997 BMW M3 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 1997 BMW M3. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1994 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | M3 | Elan |
Year Released | 1997 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 204 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |