2004 BMW M3 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 1345 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
