2008 BMW 540 vs. 1995 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 715 kg more than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lotus Elan. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1995 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1995 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 540 | 1995 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 540 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1588 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 163 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2260 mm |
