2005 BMW 530 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 BMW 530 is newer by 14 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 530 (254 HP) has 94 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 530 weights approximately 633 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 530 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 BMW 530 (300 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 530 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 530 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2260 mm |
