2001 BMW 730 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2001 BMW 730 is newer by 12 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 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 730 weights approximately 725 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 2001 BMW 730 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 2001 BMW 730. 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, 2001 BMW 730 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 730 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 730 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
