2004 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite 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 175 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 715 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M3 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
