1998 BMW 317 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 335 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 317 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 317 | Elan |
Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |