2006 BMW 120 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 BMW 120 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 BMW 120. (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 120 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 2006 BMW 120 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 BMW 120 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 120 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 120 | Elan |
Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 331 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |