2007 Alpina D3 vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 Alpina D3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,347 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alpina D3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alpina D3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alpina D3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alpina D3 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Alpina D3 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 2007 Alpina D3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 Alpina D3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Alpina D3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Alpina D3 | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Alpina | Lotus |
Model | D3 | Elan |
Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3347 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 301 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 362 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |