2008 BMW 316 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 47 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1991 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 378 kg more than 1991 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, 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 316 (176 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 316 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| 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 | 160 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| 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 | 997 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 |
