1998 BMW 318 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 743 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 318 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1170 mm |
