2008 BMW 120 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 17 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 12 more horse power than 2008 BMW 120. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 338 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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, 2008 BMW 120 (200 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 120 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 120 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 213 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2260 mm |
