2008 BMW 316 vs. 1990 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Because 2008 BMW 316 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 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 316. (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1990 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 316 | 1990 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 316 | Elan |
Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 163 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 204 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |