2005 BMW 545 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 BMW 545 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,390 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 545 (326 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 545 weights approximately 1005 kg more than 1966 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:
| 2005 BMW 545 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 545 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4390 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1665 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 29 L |
