2003 BMW 520 vs. 1994 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 520 | 1994 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 520 | Elan |
Year Released | 2003 | 1994 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |