2003 Alpina B7 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Alpina B7 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B7 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 388 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B7 weights approximately 1570 kg more than 1968 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. 2003 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B7 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alpina | Lotus |
| Model | B7 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 45 L |
