2000 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2000 BMW 318 is newer by 9 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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 42 more horse power than 2000 BMW 318. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 318 weights approximately 363 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2000 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 2000 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, 2000 BMW 318 (180 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2000 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 318 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 318 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 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 | 206 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
