1999 BMW 740 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 BMW 740 is newer by 8 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 740 (283 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 740 weights approximately 925 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 BMW 740. 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, 1999 BMW 740 (419 Nm) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 740 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 740 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1991 |
| 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 | 283 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 419 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2260 mm |
