2000 BMW 323 vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2000 BMW 323 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW 323 (341 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 323 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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 323 (245 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 2000 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan. 2000 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 1992 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1992 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 323 | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 323 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 341 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2260 mm |
