2004 BMW 318 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 13 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2004 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 2004 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, 1991 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 318. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1991 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 318 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 318 | Elan |
Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |