2008 BMW 523 vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 523 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |
