2004 BMW Z4 vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1959 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 Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW Z4 | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | Z4 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 29 L |
