1997 BMW S3 vs. 2008 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2008 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 583 kg more than 2008 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2008 Lotus Elise | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | S3 | Elise |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 168 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 785 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |