1998 BMW 318 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Lotus Elan (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 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 425 kg more than 1993 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, 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1993 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 318 | Elan |
Year Released | 1998 | 1993 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |