2007 BMW M vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 BMW M 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M (330 HP) has 170 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2007 BMW M 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 M. 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 M (355 Nm) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2007 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW M | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 330 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2260 mm |
