2003 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 19 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (141 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 263 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2003 BMW 318 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 2003 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2003 BMW 318 (271 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2003 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2003 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 318 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 318 | Elan |
Year Released | 2003 | 1991 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 141 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 271 Nm | 143 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 997 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |