1998 BMW 316 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Lotus Elan (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1993 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 316 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 316 | Elan |
Year Released | 1998 | 1993 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |