2004 BMW 325 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 BMW 325 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 44 more horse power than 2004 BMW 325. (116 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 325 weights approximately 338 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2004 BMW 325 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 325. 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, 2004 BMW 325 (222 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 325 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 325 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
