2007 BMW 325 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 BMW 325 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 325 (215 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 325 weights approximately 453 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 325 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 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 BMW 325 (250 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2007 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2007 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 325 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 325 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2260 mm |
