2006 BMW 530 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 2006 BMW 530 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 530. 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 530 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 530 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 530 | Elan |
Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 255 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |