2006 BMW X3 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 1125 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X3 (291 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | X3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1969 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 291 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1825 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 45 L |
