2007 BMW M3 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 BMW M3 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 M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M3 (338 HP) has 178 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW M3 weights approximately 658 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (366 Nm) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2007 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW M3 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 338 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2260 mm |
