2005 BMW X3 vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 BMW X3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X3 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X3 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X3 | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | X3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1992 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
