2002 BMW M3 vs. 1970 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2002 BMW M3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW M3 weights approximately 895 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan. 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. 2002 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW M3 | 1970 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1170 mm |
