2008 BMW 330 vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 543 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 2008 BMW 330 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 330. 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 330 (480 Nm) has 337 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 330 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2260 mm |
