2001 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2009 Lotus Elise. (218 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 600 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 M3 (330 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (212 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M3 | Elise |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2310 mm |
