1998 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 278 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 318 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 997 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 |
