1998 BMW 740 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1998 BMW 740 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 740 (286 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 740 weights approximately 948 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 740 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 740. 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, 1998 BMW 740 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 740 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 740 | Elan |
Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 286 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 79 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1968 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 65 L |