2003 BMW X5 vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 1175 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1990 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 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 X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan. 2003 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | X5 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
