2008 BMW 328 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW 328 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328, 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 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 328 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 328 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 45 L |
