2003 BMW 330 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 BMW 330 is newer by 14 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 330 (189 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 330 weights approximately 520 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 2003 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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 330 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 330 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 330 | Elan |
Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |